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General

Update: Tornado warning for Dale County

At 12:01 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service released an updated tornado warning in effect until 12:15 p.m. for Dale County.

“At noon, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Level Plains, or near Daleville, moving east at 40 mph,” states the weather service. “Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.”

Prepare for the tornado to impact the following locations:

Newton, Daleville, Ozark, and Fort Novosel around 12:05 p.m.
Pinckard around 12:10 p.m.

Other locations impacted by this tornadic thunderstorm include Ewell, Hunt Field, Waterford, Dean Church Road, Knox Field, Hanchey Field, Bagwells Crossroads, Lowe Army Heliport, Klondyke Hill, and Kelly.

The weather service adds, “Take cover now! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.”

Tornado watches and warnings: What you need to know

When it comes to tornadoes, understanding the difference between a Tornado watch and a Tornado warning can be a matter of life and death. Let’s break it down:

Tornado watch: Be prepared!

A Tornado watch is your advance warning that conditions are ripe for tornado formation.
It’s your signal to review your emergency plans, ensure your supplies are in order, and identify your safe room.
While it doesn’t mean a tornado is imminent, it’s a heads-up that you should be ready to act quickly if a Tornado warning is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.
Watches come from the Storm Prediction Center and often cover a large area, potentially spanning multiple counties or even states.

Tornado warning: Take action!

A Tornado warning signifies that a tornado has been spotted or detected by weather radar.
This is the real deal – there’s an immediate danger to life and property.
Your response should be quick: seek shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
If you’re in a mobile home, a vehicle, or caught outdoors, find the nearest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
Warnings are issued by your local forecast office and pinpoint a much smaller area, typically the size of a city or a small county, where a tornado has been identified, either by radar or by trained spotters and law enforcement.

Knowing the difference between these two alerts is essential in staying safe during tornado season. Stay informed, have a plan, and act promptly when danger approaches.

Prepare for a tornado

Stay weather-ready:

Check the forecast regularly to see if you’re at risk for tornadoes. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings.

Sign up for alerts:

Know how your community sends warnings. Some communities have outdoor sirens. Others depend on media and smartphones to alert residents of severe storms capable of producing tornadoes.

Establish a communication plan:

Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. If you live in a mobile home or home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get to quickly, such as a church or family member.

Choose a secure shelter:

Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.

Establish a communication plan:

Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a tornado is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when tornado warnings are issued. Don’t forget pets if time allows.

Secure your home:

Consider reinforcing your safe room for added protection. You can find plans for fortifying an interior room on the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.

Extend a helping hand:

Encourage your loved ones to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes. Take CPR training so you can help if someone is hurt.

Tornado safety: What to do when the twister hits

When a tornado strikes, taking swift action is crucial to ensuring your safety and minimizing potential harm. Follow these guidelines from the weather service:

Stay informed:

Remain vigilant and stay updated by listening to local news broadcasts or a NOAA Weather Radio for tornado watches and warnings.

At home:

If you find yourself under a tornado warning while at home, head to your basement, a designated safe room, or an interior space away from windows. Ensure your pets are safe if time permits.

At work or school:

If you are at your workplace or school, adhere to tornado drill procedures. Move promptly and calmly to your designated tornado shelter, avoiding large open areas like cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums, and steer clear of windows.

Outdoors:

If you’re outdoors and a tornado is approaching, seek immediate shelter inside a sturdy building. Sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe. If there’s time, make your way to a secure structure.

In a vehicle:

It is not safe to be in a vehicle during a tornado. The recommended action is to drive to the nearest shelter. If reaching a safe shelter is not possible, either crouch down in your car and cover your head, or leave your vehicle and seek refuge in a low-lying area like a ditch or ravine.

Remember, acting swiftly and following safety protocols are essential for your well-being when a tornado is imminent.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Former Alabama basketball star from Final Four team will re-enter transfer portal

After he left Alabama basketball following the Crimson Tide’s Final Four campaign, Rylan Griffen is heading back to the transfer portal. Griffen shared the news to his social media, after it was reported initially by ESPN’s Jeff Borzello.

Griffen spent last season at Kansas, which fell in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against Arkansas. He finished the year averaging 6.3 points per game, along with 2.1 rebounds.

Statistically, Griffen regressed from his final season at UA, where he put up 11.2 points and 3.4 points per game. His shooting percentage also took a dip, from 45.4% from the field and 39.2% from three, to 37.2% overall, 33.6% from deep.

Griffen was a key element to the 2023-24 Crimson Tide’s Final Four run. He started 33 games for Alabama that year, and averaged 12.4 points throughout the NCAA Tournament, including 19 in an upset Sweet 16 win over North Carolina.

“Obviously I was leaving a good team, but I just think I had more in store,” Griffen said of his transfer to Kansas before the season, according to Rivals. “I wanted to come do it for a different team and play for a different team now.”

The 6-foot-6, 190-pound guard joined the Crimson Tide as a freshman for the 2022-23 season. He scored 5.9 points and grabbed 2.6 rebounds per game his first year, playing all 37 games for Alabama.

He was a four-star recruit out of Richardson High School in Dallas. 247Sports ranked Griffen as the No. 3 shooting guard in his class before his arrival in Tuscaloosa.

Griffen will have one year of eligibility remaining at whichever school he chooses out of the transfer portal.

General

Weather alert announced for strong thunderstorms in Southeast Alabama Monday midday – gusts as high as 40 mph

A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Monday at 11:04 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 11:45 a.m. for Coffee, Dale, Henry, Geneva and Houston counties.

Be ready for pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 11:03 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from 8 miles southeast of Dozier to near Bagdad. Movement was east at 45 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Eglin Air Force Base, Carl Folsom A/p, Cerrogordo, Black, Gritney, Rock Hill, Pleasant Ridge, Knox Hill, Piney Grove, Four Mile Village, Caney Creek, Miller Crossroads, Earlytown, Spears, Alberton, Skipperville, Weeks, Bethlehem, Bagwells Crossroads and Slocomb.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 5 p.m. for southeastern Alabama and the Panhandle of Florida.”

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Thunderstorms with golf-ball-sized hail and damaging winds in Lee County Monday – gusts as high as 60 mph

On Monday at 11 a.m. the National Weather Service released a severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 11:30 a.m. for Lee County.

The storms are foreseen to bring wind gusts of up to 60 mph and golf-ball-sized hail (1.75 inches).

“At 10:59 a.m., a severe thunderstorm was located over Bleecker, or 7 miles northwest of Smiths, moving east at 35 mph,” says the weather service. “People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Monterey Heights, Smiths, Beulah, Smiths Station, Bleecker, Griffen Mill, Ladonia and Opelika.

The weather service states, “For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of rapid water flow:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

As ‘American Idol’ hits Hollywood, will we see these Alabama singers?

“American Idol” hits Hollywood Monday night, and the question isn’t whether we’ll see any Alabama singers in the brutal Hollywood Round – it’s how many we’ll see.

Here’s a look at the current crop of Golden Ticket winners:

Crews Wright

Wright, a high-school student from Samson, near Dothan, was featured prominently on March 9, in the first full episode of the season. The “diehard traditional” country singer appeared to make a particularly strong impression on Lionel Richie, who told him, “You’re gonna go places.” On Facebook, Wright confidently said last week that “THIS MONDAY NIGHT at 7pm on ABC you will see me compete in Hollywood on American Idol! Every person in is next level talent but who will make it to the next round?”

Isaiah Moore of Alabama is shown during an “American Idol” audition that will be aired March 9, 2025. (Eric McCandless/Disney)Eric McCandless/Disney

Isaiah Moore

Moore, a worship leader from Oneonta, made his debut in the March 16 episode. Among other things, viewers learned that Wright and his wife actually set aside their honeymoon plans so he could make it to an “Idol” audition. But it paid off with a Golden Ticket, even if the judges did struggle a bit with the pronunciation of “Oneonta.”

Anna McElroy

McElroy is a country singer from Mobile, and her “Idol” experience has been a little weird so far. She was featured in the March 21 episode, but only in a jokey montage that left viewers thinking that was maybe as far as she got. But afterward, McElroy revealed that she had, in fact, gotten her Golden Ticket to Hollywood. Sharp-eyed viewers caught the briefest glimpse of her in the March 28 episode, which was otherwise Alabama-free. Maybe in the March 31 “Idol Arena” episode we’ll actually get to hear her sing.

"American Idol" aired the second episode of its 2024 season on Feb. 25. — Dawson Slade is shown during his audition in the second episode of the 2024 season of “American Idol.” Slade, 17, is from Moulton, Ala. (Disney/Eric McCandless )Disney

Dawson Slade

Slade, a young country singer from Moulton, was featured in early epsodes of “Idol’s” 2024 season: His initial appearance left judges wondering if he was more of a songwriter than a star, but he won them over and made it to Hollywood. That was as far as he got, but he let fans know via Facebook that he’d taken another shot in 2025 and earned his second Golden Ticket. “Unfortunately they’re not able to air everybody’s audition so mine will not be aired,” he posted, promising to update fans if and when he’ll be featured.

Tyler Nichols

Nichols hasn’t yet been featured, but “Idol” producers confirm he auditioned and identify him as coming from Pell City. In a Facebook profile, he describes himself as “born in the foothills of Alabama” and as having “the sound of Hank, Stapleton and a pinch of Dylan.” He recently posted photos of his Golden Ticket, meaning we could see him pop up before the judges any time now.

Janae Patterson

Like Nichols, Patterson hasn’t yet been showcased but has been confirmed by producers. According to the show, she hails from Bessemer. She too has recently posted photos of herself with her Golden Ticket. In a Monday morning update, she posted that “Unfortunately I will not be getting aired but you mayy see a familiar face in the arena … Tune in to see some of my amazing friends … Things are about to get CRAZY!” She also promised to give fans a detailed update Tuesday evening.

Anybody else?

Quite possibly. These six are just the ones who’ve been featured, or who’ve publicly confirmed their involvement and been confirmed by producers. Don’t be too surprised if at least one more Alabama contender pops up during the whirlwind Hollywood episodes. After all, the show featured eight Alabama contenders last year.

“Idol” kicks off its 2025 Hollywood Round with a two-hour “Idol Arena” episode airing at 7 p.m. Central time Monday, March 31, on ABC. Going forward, the show will air at 7 p.m. Sundays and Mondays; at the end of several Hollywood episodes, the Top 24 will travel to Hawaii. Previously aired episodes can be seen on Hulu.

General

Pea-sized hail foreseen with thunderstorms to hit Lee County Monday – winds gusting up to 40 mph

The National Weather Service issued a report at 10:56 a.m. on Monday for strong thunderstorms until 11:45 a.m. for Lee County.

Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are probable.

“At 10:55 a.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Griffen Mill, or near Opelika, moving east at 55 mph,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Smiths, Beulah, Robert G. Pitts Airport, Auburn, Smiths Station, Beans Mill, Loachapoka, Auburn University, Monterey Heights, Beauregard, Waverly, Chewacla State Park, Roxana, Bleecker, Opelika, Marvyn, Griffen Mill, Mount Jefferson, Ladonia and Notasulga.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until noon for southeastern and east central Alabama.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Severe thunderstorm watch active for Southeast Alabama until early Monday evening

On Monday at 10:52 a.m. the National Weather Service released a severe thunderstorm watch in effect until 5 p.m. for Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties.

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Stanford hires NFL veteran as interim coach for 2025 season

Stanford has hired former NFL quarterback and coach Frank Reich as its interim head coach for the 2025 season, school officials announced Monday.

The 63-year-old Reich has never coached in college, but was head coach of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts for six seasons and Carolina Panthers for one. While with the Colts, he coached Andrew Luck, the former Stanford and NFL quarterback who was named the Cardinal’s football general manager in November.

“I could not be more excited for our coaches, staff and players to have Frank as our head football coach for the 2025 season,” Luck said. “I have experienced first-hand the incredible impact Frank has demonstrated as a leader and have full confidence he is the perfect steward for this season of Stanford Football. Frank is a teacher, a winner and a coach of the highest caliber.

“Frank’s values align seamlessly with our vision for this program and I firmly believe in his ability to maximize the on-field potential of our student-athletes while serving as a role model in all aspects of their personal growth.”

Reich steps in after Troy Taylor was fired last week following an internal investigation into the treatment of staff members. Taylor was highly successful on the FCS level at Sacramento State, but went just 6-18 in two seasons at Stanford.

Reich played 14 years in the NFL mostly as a backup quarterback, including stints with the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, New York Jets and Detroit Lions. He then spent 12 seasons as an NFL assistant before getting his first head-coaching job in Indianapolis in 2018, which happened to be Luck’s final season before he abruptly retired at age 29.

“I am thrilled to be working with Andrew again to help take an important step in establishing his vision for the Stanford Football program,” said Reich. “Andrew is an elite leader and competitor, and those traits, along with his genuine passion for this university, resonated in every way and inspired me to accept this role. The unique responsibility to mentor the best student-athletes in the world, to be the absolute best in what they aspire to do, is an opportunity I will fully embrace.”

Stanford, now a member of the ACC, opens the 2025 season on Aug. 23 at Hawaii.

General

Update: Weather alert affecting Russell and Barbour counties Monday midday

An updated weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 11:09 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until noon for Russell and Barbour counties.

The storms may bring penny-sized hail (0.75 inches) and wind gusts of up to 50 mph.

“At 11:09 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Tuskegee National Forest to near Davisville to near Beans Crossroads to 8 miles southwest of Antioch. Movement was east at 55 mph,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Tyler Crossroads, Hawkinsville, Millers Ford, Uchee, Spring Hill, Louisville, Hurtsboro, Blue Springs State Park, Twin Springs, Clio, Rutherford, Osco, Richards Crossroads, Uchee Creek, White Oak, Mount Andrew, Phenix City, Doster, Russell County Sports Complex and Gaino.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until noon for southeastern and east central Alabama.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

See inside $4.2 million ‘magnificent Mediterranean-style estate’ on Alabama’s Gulf coast

A stunning manor on exclusive Ono Island in Orange Beach, Ala., offers an array of amenities including a recreation room, fully equipped home gym, chef’s kitchen, and a private boat dock with a slip and lift. The $4.3 million home is located on Old River and provides amazing views.

This stunning house on exclusive Ono Island in Orange Beach, Ala., offers an array of amenities including a recreation room, fully equipped home gym, chef’s kitchen, and a private boat dock with a slip and lift. The $4.2 million mansion has access to beaches, tennis courts, gold and more.RE/MAX Paradise

Click the gallery at the top of the story for more photos.

In addition, the home was specially designed to help withstand coastal storms, says listing agent Tika Policelli with RE/MAX Paradise. “Seize the opportunity to own this magnificent Mediterranean-style estate custom built to withstand storms with great resilience,” Policelli said.

The home also has access to the Ono Island community’s amenities, including tennis courts, golf, clubhouse, pool and playground.

Orange Beach Estate — This stunning house on exclusive Ono Island in Orange Beach, Ala., offers an array of amenities including a recreation room, fully equipped home gym, chef’s kitchen, and a private boat dock with a slip and lift. The $4.2 million mansion has access to beaches, tennis courts, gold and more.RE/MAX Paradise

“With its unmatched design, breathtaking views, and luxurious amenities, this residence presents a rare opportunity to own a slice of Gulf Coast paradise,” Policelli said.

Listing details

Address: 33202 River Road, Orange Beach, Ala.

Price: $4.2 million

Built: 2001

Size: 4,943 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms

Lot Size: .48 acres

Agent: Tika Policelli, 850-426-6239, RE/MAX Paradise

The primary bedroom on the ground floor has an ensuite bathroom and opens through gorgeous archways into a light-filled living area.

“Upstairs, discover three generously sized guest bedrooms, each accompanied by its own adjoining bathroom, ensuring ultimate comfort and convenience for both family and guests,” Policelli said. “Additionally, a cozy retreat awaits in the form of an extra living room on this level, ideal for relaxation or family time.”

Policelli said Ono Island is “renowned for its exclusivity, security, and natural beauty.”

“Its prime location ensures convenient access to pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, promising a peaceful and serene lifestyle here on Ono Island,” she said.