Alabama News

General News

General

Central Alabama placed under a severe thunderstorm watch until Monday midday

On Monday at 4:48 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch in effect until noon for Autauga, Bibb, Blount, Bullock, Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Etowah, Greene, Hale, Jefferson, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Randolph, Russell, St. Clair, Shelby, Sumter, Talladega, Tallapoosa and Tuscaloosa counties.

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 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.
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.
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, 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. While water and metal don’t 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.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

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:

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 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

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:

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 limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected 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.

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 affecting Northeast Alabama until Monday midday

The National Weather Service released a severe thunderstorm watch at 4:48 a.m. on Monday in effect until noon for DeKalb, Jackson and Marshall counties.

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

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, 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.
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 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.
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, 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.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

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:

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, 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.

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:

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:

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.

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

North Alabama placed under a severe thunderstorm watch until Monday midday

On Monday at 4:48 a.m. a severe thunderstorm watch was released by the National Weather Service in effect until noon for Cullman, Franklin, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties.

When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms

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 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.
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 without 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 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

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.

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:

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.

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

Auburn in Final Four, low-speed tractor chase: Down in Alabama

Stormy early Monday

Keep an eye on the weather during the early part of today. As of this recording much of the state was still under some kind of risk for overnight severe weather. Numerous school systems have even delayed school today, and at least a couple have canceled in-person classes.

Also, if it turns out that it applies to you and your area: Don’t drive down flooded streets.

Alamodome-bound

Auburn is back in the Final Four.

It’s only the second time the Tigers have made it this far. They did it by beating Michigan State 70-64 Sunday in the Elite Eight.

Things were a little unsettling when leading scorer Johni Broome left the game with a hurt right elbow. He was cleared to re-enter the game, however. Coach Bruce Pearl said they’ll know more today about his condition and will, of course, be monitoring him this week.

He has nearly a week to feel better. The Tigers play Florida in the NCAA Tournament semifinals Saturday in the Alamodome in San Antonio.

Also over the weekend, Alabama fell to Duke 85-65 in another Elite Eight game.

Slow-speed chase

For this next story, I’ll first need to explain what a track loader is.

It’s a lot like a skid steer, or what people often mean when they say “Bobcat,” although Bobcat is a brand name.

It’s usually a compact tractor with a wide bucket on the front. A skid steer has wheels and tires, while a track loader runs on a pair of tracks. That difference makes the track loader a smoother ride that’s less likely to bog down in the mud or sand but a little less nimble with a lower top speed (remember this downside).

It’s great for a lot of landscaping and excavation jobs, moving dirt around and hauling heavy stuff from one part of your property to another.

It’s not, however, awesome for running from the law.

AL.com’s Patrick Darrington reports that an arrest has been made in a January low-speed police chase involving a stolen track-loader making its way along I-10.

Video of the event was widely shared on social media at the time. You can see an orange Kubota track loader crawling along the interstate, law-enforcement vehicles following and at times even facing the tractor and backing up to avoid contact. The tractor finally exited the interstate as the widely seen video ended. Police say the pursuit culminated with the suspect attempting to drive into an officer and multiple officers opening fire.

Reports from police in February stated the suspect was in critical condition at the time. The 36-year-old man is now charged with attempting to elude, first-degree assault, theft of property, criminal mischief, reckless endangerment and resisting arrest.

What’s in a Name?

Jordan-Hare Stadium

Particularly, the pronunciation of Jordan/Jurden.

This one comes to us courtesy of AL.com’s Creg Stephenson, who got the scoop from Shug Jordan’s son, Ralph Jordan Jr.

Obviously, this place name is really about a person’s name. Auburn University’s Jordan-Hare Stadium is partly named for Ralph “Shug” Jordan, who coached on the plains from 1951-75.

Because of Jordan’s status as an Auburn legend, a lot of folks in this state will swear that Michael Jurden mispronounces his own name.

Ralph Jr.’s own study revealed that his family’s pronunciation of Jordan goes back many generations, with a number of headstones even spelling the name more phonetically. And it appears that the pronunciation dates all the way back to a Welsh pronunciation of the word, and the desire of recent generations to maintain that identity, that has given Auburn, our state, and college football such a distinct pronunciation for the name.

Also, for those who don’t know, the “Hare” in Jordan-Hare, is for Cliff Hare, who played on Auburn’s very first football team, in 1892, and later served as president of the old Southern Conference in pre-SEC days. He also was an influential chairman of Auburn’s Faculty Athletic Committee as well as a professor.

Today’s Barkley-ism

Kenny Smith (on the “March Madness” show after Alabama’s Elite 8 loss): “It’s hard to believe that the state of Alabama is the capital of basketball when the biggest airport is Birmingham. It’s hard to get to.”

Charles Barkley: “You don’t have to fly into Birmingham. You can fly into Leeds. … I’m stretching now.”

More Alabama News

Alabama News Quiz results/answers

Overall results

Five out of five: 28.6%
Four out of five: 32.0%
Three out of five: 21.5%
Two out of five: 14.4%
One out of five: 3.1%
None out of five: 0.3%

Some in Alabama have recently received unsolicited packages in the mail containing this.

Tomato and onion seeds (CORRECT) 90.1%
Chicken feed 5.4%
Bass and bluegill eggs 2.3%
University of Florida diplomas 2.3%

Alabama health officials issued a warning after this rabid animal attacked a hunter.

Fox (CORRECT) 75.4%
Coyote 21.0%
Otter 2.8%
Sandhill crane 0.8%

What exhibit recently opened at the Birmingham Zoo?

Cougar Crossing (CORRECT) 68.0%
Bear Branch 16.4%
Moth Mania 9.3%
Aardvark Acres 6.2%

Local school officials recently announced that Flat Rock School will close after 120 years. In what county is Flat Rock located?

Jackson (CORRECT) 75.1%
Jefferson 11.6%
Washington 10.8%
Reagan 2.5%

Deer Valley Elementary School fourth grader Snigdha Pati will represent Alabama at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. What word did Snigdha spell correctly in the final round to secure the win?

Jurisprudence (CORRECT) 59.2%
Paraphernalia 34.6%
Camouflage 5.7%
Lawfare 0.6%

Born on This Date

In 1901, Negro League star and Baseball Hall of Famer Mule Suttles of the Edgewater area in Jefferson County.

In 1958, actor Tony Cox of Uniontown.

The podcast

General

Thunderstorms with penny-sized hail in Jackson County Monday

A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 4:02 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 4:45 a.m. for Jackson County.

The storms may bring penny-sized hail (0.75 inches) and wind gusts of up to 30 mph.

“At 4:01 a.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 8 miles north of Skyline, or 17 miles south of Winchester, moving east at 50 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 Bass, Princeton, Jericho, Long Island, Russell Cave National Monument, Estillfork, Hytop, Anderson, Larkin and Bridgeport.

The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 5 a.m. for north central Alabama.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

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.
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 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.

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

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:

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 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.

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 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 impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered 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

Thunderstorms with quarter-sized hail and damaging winds in Colbert and Lauderdale counties Monday

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 12:49 a.m. on Monday in effect until 1:45 a.m. for Colbert and Lauderdale counties.

Wind gusts of up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail (1 inch) are likely.

“At 12:48 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 7 miles southwest of Shiloh to 8 miles northeast of Ripley, moving east at 20 mph,” according to the weather service. “Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Riverton, Wright, Threet and Waterloo.

According to the weather service, “For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 5 a.m. for northwestern Alabama.”

Preparing for approaching lightning: Expert safety advice

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.
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 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 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 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.

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 rapid water flow:

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:

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:

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 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.

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

Weather alert announced for strong thunderstorms in Lauderdale and Colbert counties until 1 a.m. Monday

The National Weather Service issued a report at 12:16 a.m. on Monday for strong thunderstorms until 1 a.m. for Lauderdale and Colbert counties.

Wind gusts of up to 50 mph and penny-sized hail (0.75 inches) are foreseen.

“At 12:15 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from 6 miles northeast of Olive Hill to near Canaan. Movement was east at 30 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 Riverton, Wright, Threet, Waterloo and Zip City.

The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 5 a.m. for northwestern Alabama.”

When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms

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

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 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.
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 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.

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:

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:

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:

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

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:

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.

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

Today’s daily horoscopes: March 31, 2025

A Taurus moon rules this very unusual astrologically day, devoid of remarkable aspects. It’s like picking up a clean, hot plate and staring wide-eyed into the grand buffet. What do I want? What would be good to want? What goes together? What amount is actually way too much? Decisions, decisions — but it’s all you can eat, so dive in!

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Not every connection offers something. If the relationship isn’t a neat fit, even friction has its purpose. You’ll be compatible in some ways and complementary in others. When you’re neither, you’re one another’s teacher.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Oh, to be in relationships that feel real and reciprocal! Whether you’re experiencing the rush of being in one or the grating discomfort of one-way relationships, you’ll be reminded how important it is to choose the right company.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You realize that you’ve been carrying a certain story for decades now. Maybe it’s about who you are, who you will be or how you fit in the world. Today you’ll see ways that this story is surfacing in real time.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). When was the last time you checked in with your feelings? Whatever they are, they matter. Sometimes you’re not sure what you’re feeling, but your attention on it for a few minutes of golden silence is enough to let in the slightest whisper of knowing.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your dreams are telling you about the past you’re ready to process, the present you don’t consciously see and the insides of your future. You’re open to the magic of your subconscious and could wake up tomorrow knowing exactly what to do.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’ll pause to examine your course. You have momentum in a direction, but momentum is not inevitability; it can be interrupted or redirected. You are following footprints in the sand, and the tide always returns.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Relationships are co-created, so no one is completely in control. There’s no reason to judge yourself for what goes wrong or credit yourself for what goes right. Instead, stay aware of the give-and-take and the reality; each moment together is a collaboration.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Being seen is one of the basic human needs. People seek attention in strange ways today, perhaps by being late and making everyone wait for them, or sensationalism, alarm, etc. Avoid those cheap attention grabbers. Your time is precious.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Sometimes learning from others is the quickest path to understanding your current journey is different. The lesson is something custom-fitted to make your life better for you, and it will come through your own quest and openness to self-discovery.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). A project is veering into unintended territory. It’s not necessarily wrong, but it’s not where you meant to go. Time for a realistic assessment. You can manage your end of things, but that in and of itself may not be enough to get a thing headed where you want it to go.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Perception is personal, shaped by history, mood and attention. Two people will walk through an environment together and come away with a totally different experience of it. Neither view is the whole picture — sharing perspectives is what makes it richer.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The foundations of connection often start small but grow stronger with each exchange. Lightness opens the door for depth. A casual conversation is the first step to a more meaningful one.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (March 31). Exciting momentum is the norm this year. You’ll get used to your ideas and dreams coming to speedy fruition. Inner confidence will be your secret weapon in every endeavor. More highlights: A creative breakthrough sends you traveling, breaking into new circles and even earning a prize. Joyful relationships take many forms. You’ll get caught up in someone’s story and love the role! Virgo and Sagittarius adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 17, 23, 5, 9 and 27.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: As Burt Goodman in the series “Severance,” Christopher Walken is half of a comedic duo with his friend John Turturro, who specifically requested him for the part. Walken is a legendary giver artistically and a favorite of his colleagues. Case in point: “That’s Amore!” with John Travolta, another reunion in production. With well over 100 major entertainment enterprises in his illustrious career, a truer original than Walken would be hard to find. Walken was born when the sun and Mercury were in energetic Aries and the moon and Mars were in eccentric Aquarius.

Holiday Mathis’ debut novel, “How To Fail Epically in Hollywood,” is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.

General

Auburn basketball players react to playing Florida in the Final Four

Auburn basketball dropped its first conference game of the game of the season to Florida in a 90-81 loss this past February.

Now heading to the programs second Final Four appearance in school history, the Tigers will get another shot at the Gators this weekend.

“I mean, Florida has a great team. They were good enough to beat us at home, so we’ve just got to go game by game. It’s another team in the way of us getting to the National Championship,” Chaney Johnson said postgame. “So, we’ve just got to continue putting our head down, continue staying humble, continue staying hungry. Just go out there and play with great effort and great energy.”

In the first matchup against Florida, The Tigers main source of offense came from the game’s leading scorer Miles Kelly with 22 points.

Kelly said all the Tigers need to do this time around is play their game.

“We just got to go in there and play Auburn basketball,” Kelly said postgame. “We are going to watch the film on how we played them earlier in the year, and I really believe we got our groove back. We are smoking hot right now and all we have to do is keep playing our brand of basketball.”

All eyes will be on the matchup between Florida’s Alex Condon and Auburn’s Johni Broome. Condon dominated with 17 points on three missed shots in first game against the Tigers.

Walter Clayton scored 19 points in the Gators victory at Auburn. During the NCAA tournament, he became the first Florida player to finish with back-to-back 30-point games.

Auburn coach Bruce Pearl explained the importance of representing the SEC in the Final Four as he’ll matchup against his former assistant and current Florida coach Todd Golden.

“We’re going to the Final Four with our four 1 seeds. The four teams that advanced, I think they’re the four best teams in the country. That doesn’t obviously always happen.”

“The league has done a great job, and unfortunately, there will only be one SEC team playing for the National Championship on Monday.”

Jerry Humphrey III covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him on X at @Jerryhump3 or email him at [email protected].

General

North Alabama under a tornado watch until early Monday morning

The National Weather Service released a tornado watch at 11:18 p.m. on Sunday in effect until Monday at 5 a.m. for Colbert, Cullman, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties.

Tornado watches and warnings: Your safety guide

When it comes to tornadoes, understanding the distinction between a Tornado watch and a Tornado warning can be a matter of life and death. Here’s a breakdown:

Tornado watch: Be prepared!

A Tornado watch serves as an early warning that conditions are conducive to 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 indicate an imminent tornado, it’s a heads-up to be prepared to take swift action if a Tornado warning is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.
Tornado Watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center and often encompass a broad 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 threat to life and property.
Your response should be swift: move to 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, seek the nearest substantial shelter and shield 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 distinction between these two alerts is paramount for staying safe during tornado season. Stay informed, have a plan, and act promptly when danger looms.

Prepare for a tornado

Be 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 notifications:

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:

Create a family emergency plan that includes a designated meeting place and important contact information. If your home lacks a basement, identify a nearby safe building, like a church or a relative’s house, that you can reach quickly.

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 regular family drills for severe thunderstorms so everyone knows what to do when a tornado threat arises. Ensure that all family members are aware of the safe location to seek shelter, and don’t forget about your pets if time permits.

Prepare 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.

Help your neighbor:

Encourage your neighbors and loved ones to prepare for possible tornadoes. Consider taking CPR training to be of assistance in case of injuries.

Staying safe during a tornado: Quick actions to take

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:

To ensure your safety during a tornado, remember that acting promptly is crucial, according to the weather service. Stay informed about tornado watches and warnings through regular updates on local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.

At home:

If you find yourself under a tornado warning, immediately seek refuge in your basement, safe room, or an interior room without windows. If there’s enough time, bring your pets with you.

At work or school:

Follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.

Outdoors:

When you are outdoors and a tornado is approaching, seek immediate refuge inside a sturdy building. Remember that sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe options. If there is sufficient time, make your way to a secure structure.

In a vehicle:

Being in a vehicle during a tornado is highly unsafe. Your best option is to drive to the nearest shelter. If reaching shelter is not possible, either stay inside your car, covering your head, or abandon the vehicle and seek refuge in a low-lying area like a ditch or ravine.

Always keep in mind that taking swift action and following established safety procedures are crucial for your well-being when a tornado threat 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.