Alabama News

The National Weather Service issued a report at 2:53 p.m. on Wednesday for strong thunderstorms until 4 p.m. for Mobile County.

Residents can expect wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 2:53 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 7 miles southwest of Mobile Regional Airport, or 8 miles north of Grand Bay, moving southwest at 10 mph,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”

The alert is for Grand Bay.

The weather service adds, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.”

When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms

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 ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:

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’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from 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, 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, 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

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

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:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

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:

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 first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix 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:

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.

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.

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.

One of the state’s top running backs will stay in the state of Alabama for his collegiate career.

Dothan High running back AJ Alexander announced his commitment to North Alabama and head coach Brent Dearmon on Sunday, adding to a growing recruiting class for the Lions.

The rising senior picked UNA over other offers from Jacksonville State, Appalachian State, Georgia Southern and Liberty.

A first team all-state pick last season, he ran for 1,516 yards and 18 touchdowns on 216 carries for the Wolves as a junior. He also hauled in four catches for 57 yards and a touchdown in the air.

His rushing mark last season was a Dothan High record, topping former Wolf Raymon Blackmon’s 1,506 rushing yards in 2022.

In other recruiting news…

Commitments

Wadley standout Jaquez Wilkes committed to Auburn over a final group that also included Alabama, Florida State, Texas A&M and Miami.

Two in-state athletes announced their commitments to Division I Alcorn State on Tuesday. Saraland defender also held an offer from Tuskegee.

Jackson athlete LaQuon Wisenhunt picked the Braves over offers from UCF, Samford, North Alabama and West Alabama. The two will face off in the first game of the season when Jackson hosts Saraland on Friday, Aug. 22.

Lannett defensive end Jeramiah McGillberry committed to Alabama A&M.

In basketball, Hayden High standout and 6-foot-7 guard Tucker Hyatt committed to UAH. He averaged 15.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists last season.

Offers

Hewitt-Trussville defender D’Ante Seals added an offer from Liberty. He also holds offers from Georgia, Mississippi State, South Carolina, Arkansas, Ole Miss, UAB, Troy and more.

In volleyball, Oxford’s Ava Thomas and Fort Payne’s Lydie Varnadore both picked up offers from South Alabama.

In basketball, Hale County star added an SEC offer from Oklahoma. He has also picked up offers from Alabama, Auburn, Kansas, LSU, Tennessee, Michigan, Miami and Florida State this offseason.

Oxford High guard Jaylen Alexander picked up an offer from East Tennessee State. He also holds offers from Auburn, UAB, Jacksonville State, Samford, Louisiana and more.

Bob Jones standout Jae Smith picked up offers from North Alabama and Louisiana Tech. She also holds offers from Auburn, Alabama A&M, UAB, South Alabama and Jackson State.

Patriots teammates also added offers;Elise McClain picked up Division I offers from Norfolk State and Jackson State, while Jael Robinson was offered by Alaska-Anchorage.

If you’ve been on social media in the last month or so, you’ve probably seen cute posts about L.L. Bean’s classic Boat and Tote bag.

Buyers are having fun picking catchy names to be monogrammed on the ubiquitous bags. You can also choose your favorite color – they come in 12 different trim colors – and they are affordable, too – from $32.95 – $54.95.

Now, there’s a new option for Boat and Tote lovers, too. L.L. Bean just dropped the Boat and Tote Crossbody bag in medium. It’s available in four colors – Black, Natural, Slate and Vintage Rose but the first two are already sold out so don’t wait long to grab yours.

Pre-orders for the bags are now underway with an estimated shipping date of Sept. 30. You also et free shipping with each $75 purchase.

L.L. Bean calls the bag “A new twist on an old favorite.”

“Made in Maine using the same heavyweight canvas as the original, with the same extra-durable construction details and a handy removable shoulder strap. Make it your own by adding a custom monogram; we can embroider a name, initials or a favorite phrase in a wide selection of colors,” L.L. Bean explains on its website.

Like all L.L. Bean bags, it’s handcrafted in Maine one bag at a time.

You can see all the Boat and Tote bags here.

Following Donald Trump’s recent chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis, U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala. has suggested that the president’s condition was either caused or exacerbated by some who oppose the current administration.

In an interview with New York radio station WABC 770 AM’s “The Cats Roundtable”, host John Catsimatidis said Trump “got sick…because he’s walking around for 18 hours a day and trying to do too much.”

“I’m a year and a half younger than the president, we all have to watch those ages,” Catsimatidis said.

But Tuberville said it wasn’t Trump’s age that is to blame for his current state of health.

“The pressure on somebody like President Trump right now, not just from outside entities … all over the world but also fighting the radicals in this country,” Tuberville said.

Tuberville, a longtime supporter of the president, announced in May his plans to run for Alabama governor next year.

“We’ve got to help President Trump,” Tuberville said previously.

“He got elected by almost 80 million people. They gave us a mandate. Let’s get it done.”

He told Catsimatidis Sunday that every day of Trump’s administration was “almost like a fistfight.”

“And he’s making progress,” he continued.

“We just need to win more and more people on our side that understand what’s going on because our country has got one foot in the grave when it comes to our Constitution and capitalism.”

After cameras captured what appeared to be a bruise on Trump’s right hand during a meeting with the press last week, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters at a briefing that the president had undergone medical tests to examine leg swelling and bruising on the back his hand and had been diagnosed with CVI.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, this condition happens when your leg veins become damaged and can’t work as they should.

The disease is very common, and usually affects people over the age of 50, with the risk going up the older someone gets, the site adds.

At 79 years old, Trump is the second oldest person to serve as president of the United States and the oldest ever to begin a term as president.

But Leavitt told reporters last week that he remains in “excellent health” and wasn’t in pain.

A flood advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 2:24 p.m. in effect until 5:30 p.m. for Baldwin County.

The weather service states, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas,” explains the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

• Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice from the weather service

Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or find yourself camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential flood safety guidelines:

Move to higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Steer clear of flooded basements and submerged areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding is heightened, especially in low-lying and flood-prone regions. Always remember never to drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it appears. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

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 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:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

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:

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

Prioritize visibility:

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 first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix 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 impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
• 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.

The Los Angeles Dodgers play against the Minnesota Twins in an MLB game today. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 3:10 p.m. CT on MLB Network. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV.

The Dodgers enter this matchup with a 59-43 record, and they are coming off a 10-7 loss against Minnesota.

In order to bounce back today, the Dodgers will need to rely on their star player Shohei Ohtani. He leads the Los Angeles offense with 36 home runs and 69 RBI, which showcases his offensive prowess.

Notably, Ohtani has hit a home run in four consecutive games.

The Twins enter this matchup with a 49-52 record, and they have won two of their last three games.

In order to win today’s game, the Twins will need a great performance from their star player Byron Buxton. He leads the Minnesota offense with 23 home runs and 58 RBI, so he will look to continue his offensive success this afternoon.

Buxton also leads the team with a .290 batting average this season.

Fans can watch this MLB game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV.

Wahlburgers has closed multiple locations nationwide.

The burger chain, owned by Paul, Donnie, and Mark Wahlberg, closed 79 locations so far this year, according to Eat This, Not That. The locations were inside of Hy-Vee stores, ending a franchising agreement that started in 2017.

The closures lower the total number of Wahlburgers’ nationwide to 34.

According to USA TODAY, Wahlburgers CEO Randy Sharpe told Nation’s Restaurant News that the closures weren’t a significant revenue driver for the burger chain or the supermarket company, since the locations weren’t full-service restaurants.

“When I came on board a year and a half ago, I was surprised that off-premises revenues weren’t as high as I expected them to be,” Sharpe said, according to the publication Food on Demand. “Our brand is natural for off-premises ordering. We want those orders to be treated the same as in-store orders.”

Wahlburger closed its location in Huntsville in 2024.

What burger chains are expanding?

Culver’s, the chain known for its burgers and frozen custard, is planning to open a dozen locations through the end of 2025.

USA TODAY reports the Wisconsin-based chain has recently opened restaurants in 14 cities across 8 states, including Florida, Georgia, and Illinois.

Brooks just revealed its most cushioned and comfortable running shoe to date in the “Ghost” sneaker series, the Ghost Max 3, now available to preorder on Brooks’ website.

The new men’s and women’s Brooks Ghost Max 3 running shoe is an updated version of its predecessor, the Ghost Max 2 (which also just so happens to be on sale). The Ghost Max 3 is designed to provide a smoother ride, comfier upper and enhanced orthotic fit. Not to mention, it is considerably lighter than the Ghost Max 2.

RELATED: Brooks super-soft Ghost Max 2 running shoe is now on sale for a limited time

Overall, the Brooks Ghost Max 3 is designed for both runners and walkers who need neutral support and prefer maximum cushioning and can accommodate orthotics. Featuring a 6mm midsole drop and lightweight design, it utilizes DNA LOFT v3 cushioning to provide a soft and responsive ride.

Both the men’s and women’s Ghost Max 3 come in seven colorways each, so whichever design you chose can perfectly match your individual style. Select designs are also available in extended sizes.

“The Ghost Max 3 delivers a soft, smooth, protective feeling thanks to high-stack soft cushioning, a rocker shape that helps you move from landing to toe-off, and a broad base for added stability,” Brooks states.

Those interested can preorder the men’s Ghost Max 3 here and women’s Ghost Max 3 here.