Alabama News

Use our McLuck Casino promo code link and get up to 57,500 Gold Coins and 27.5 free Sweepstakes Coins to play with this weekend. McLuck is one of the most popular sweepstakes casinos in the US, and this welcome offer makes now the best time to join.

McLuck promo code bonus details

New players get up to 57,500 Gold Coins (GC) and 27.5 free Sweepstakes Coins (SC) with our welcome bonus link.

To start, new players automatically get 7,500 GC and 2.5 SC on signup with no purchase required.

Then, in the McLuck store, purchase up to an additional 50,000 GC for $9.99 and get 25 free SC as a bonus with the first-purchase offer.

In total, new players can receive 57,500 Gold Coins and 27.5 Sweepstakes Coins when joining McLuck this weekend.

McLuck is one of the best sweepstakes casinos in the US, with more than 1,000 games. The variety of options rivals what is found at real money online casinos.

Join this weekend and explore McLuck’s library of gaming options across table games, online slots and live-dealer games.

McLuck terms of service

When you claim the McLuck welcome bonus, you are subject to the casino’s terms of service. McLuck’s terms and conditions are standard compared to other sweepstakes casinos:

• Players must be at least 21 years old to play games or claim promos at McLuck Casino.
• The welcome offer is available once per user account.
• Players are only allowed one user account per person.
• All purchases from the Gold Coins store are final and non-refundable.
• McLuck is available in all US markets, excluding Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Washington and West Virginia.

McLuck is a sweepstakes casino that operates under a free-to-play model. When playing games, you can use two different gaming currencies: Gold Coins (GC) and Sweepstakes Coins (SC).

Gold Coins are used to play games. They can’t be redeemed for cash prizes. You get more Gold Coins from winning games or by directly purchasing them from the in-game store.

Sweepstakes Coins can’t be purchased from the in-game store. You collect Sweeps Coins from winning games or as bonuses in Gold Coins purchases.

Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for cash prizes at McLuck.

First game to play with the McLuck bonus

3 Big Barrels Buffalo

This weekend, the first game you should play with the McLuck bonus is 3 Big Barrels Buffalo. This is a medium volatility slot that has an RTP rate of 94.3%. The goal for this one is to trigger the Hold & Win feature.

The feature is triggered when bonus symbols appear during a spin. This feature triggers randomly, and players start with three free spins. The count resets to three spins every time a bonus symbol is active. The bonus symbol stays in place.

Learn more about our gaming editorial staff.

If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.

With the 2025 WNBA All-Star over, teams are now preparing for the second half of the season. One of the most intriguing games this week will be between the Indiana Fever and Dallas Wings. Superstar Caitlin Clark is still not expected to play, as there’s been no timetable for her return from a groin injury.

The Fever have tried their best to remain afloat without Clark, who’s dealt with numerous injuries over the season. They’re teetering around the .500 mark, leaning on players such as Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull.

The Wings are dysfunctional to put things lightly. Paige Bueckers is still the favorite to win Rookie of the Year, but the team and coaching staff currently in place around her are lackluster. The Wings are the second-worst team in the league currently.

Fans looking to tune into the Fever vs Wings game can do so on Fubo, who’s offering a free trial to new subscribers.

Here’s everything you need to know before the Fever and Wings tipoff:

When: Friday, August 1, 2025

Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX

Time: 7:30 p.m. E.T.

Fans looking to tune into the Fever vs Wings game can do so on Fubo, who’s offering a free trial to new subscribers.

The NFL is finally back tonight when the Chargers and Lions go head-to-head in the Hall of Fame Game. Celebrate the preseason kickoff by grabbing our bet365 bonus code ALBET365, which lets users bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets – win or lose.

New sports bettors will gravitate toward the straightforward nature of the bet $5, get $150 bonus offer. If you’re a seasoned bettor, consider claiming bet365’s $1,000 first-bet safety net.

bet365 bonus code ALBET365 at a glance

bet365 bonus code ALBET365: How to claim the offer for Chargers vs. Lions

The sign-up offers at other sportsbooks force you to win your opening wager to earn a bonus. With bet365, you’re protected no matter the outcome of your first bet. After opening an account and exploring the bet365 app, you’ll find more examples of bet365’s user-friendly approach.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Tap a bet365 bonus code banner or link and download the bet365 app.
2. Follow the “New Customers” tab in the app and complete the registration forms. If you use our links, the bet365 bonus code ALBET365 will auto-fill.
3. Submit a minimum deposit of $10.
4. Bet $5 on any event and get a $150 bonus (win or lose) with the bet-and-get promo.
5. Receive a full refund in bonuses if you select the first-bet safety net and lose your initial wager (max. $1,000 bonus).

You can only claim one of bet365’s top-notch welcome offers, so choose wisely. No matter which promo you select, the awarded bonuses are non-withdrawable and expire after seven days.

RELATED: Review our 2025 fantasy football guide for expert tips on drafting your team.

bet365 existing user promos

Offering two must-have sign-up bonuses isn’t the only thing that sets bet365 apart from the competition. The up-and-coming sportsbook also carries the most unique existing user promos in the industry, including:

• NFL Early Payout: Bet the moneyline in an NFL game and get the winnings paid early if your team grabs a 17-point lead. Legs in a parlay will be marked as winners.
• Parlay Boost: bet365 awards parlay bettors with up to a 100% profit boost. The more legs you add to a parlay, the bigger the boost.

How to use the bet365 bonus code ALBET365 for Chargers vs. Lions

Tonight’s Hall of Fame Game between the Chargers and Lions kicks off at 7 p.m. CT in Canton, Ohio. If you claim bet365’s bet-and-get offer, feel free to bet on any market because the $150 bonus is coming whether you win or lose. Knowing the bonus is guaranteed, I suggest backing a market with plus odds to increase the potential cash payout.

The betting options for Chargers vs. Lions are limited, but one that caught my eye is the +1400 odds ($5 bet returns $70) for the game to end in a tie.

If the score is tied after the fourth quarter, the game ends because there’s no overtime in the preseason. Plus, the Hall of Fame Game is typically low-scoring, which increases the likelihood of a tie.

If you don’t want to feel like a soccer fan rooting for a tie, you could take Detroit to win by 1-6 points at +275 odds ($5 bet returns $13.75). The spread is set at Lions -2, so if Detroit covers but Los Angeles keeps it close, you’ll have a shot at cashing the bet.

Learn more about our gaming editorial staff.

If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.

Patients with UnitedHealthcare will continue to have coverage for the care they get from the UAB Health System, as the two parties reached a tentative deal to continue their contract

“The UAB Health System and UnitedHealthcare have reached an agreement in principle on a new health insurance contract,” UAB said in a statement at 5 p.m., just before the contract expired. “This agreement ensures that UnitedHealthcare members can continue to access care from all UAB and UAB-affiliated medical providers without any disruption to services.”

According to UAB, both parties agreed to a one-week period to finalize terms, after which they plan to have a multi-year contract “providing stability and continued access to high-quality care for patients across the state,” the health system said.

United, the largest insurance provider in the nation, reaffirmed those terms, saying in a statement to AL.com that “we’ve reached an agreement in principle that will provide continued, uninterrupted network access to UAB. Our organizations have extended our current contract through Aug. 8 as we work to finalize the terms of a long-term agreement.”

UAB, which serves 1.4 million Alabamians, first announced the contract dispute last month, warning that if an agreement was not reached by today patients with United would “be personally responsible” for costs.

UAB said at the time that their issues with United included “below-market reimbursement rates, excessive claim denials and delayed payments.” Other hospitals around the country also had similar disputes with the insurance provider.

United shot back at the health system, calling it “one of the most expensive academic health systems in the Southeast.” They warned that UAB’s contract demands would “significantly increase premiums and out-of-pocket costs for consumers.”

Contract negotiations also broke down between the two 2019, and similarly, an agreement was reached shortly before the deadline.

A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Thursday at 5:34 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 6:30 p.m. for Cherokee County.

Residents can expect wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 5:33 p.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Blanche to near Crossville. Movement was southeast at 15 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Centre, Cedar Bluff, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Forney, Centre Municipal Airport, Leesburg, Sand Rock, Gaylesville, Tennala, Cherokee Rock Village, Pleasant Gap, Cornwall Furnace Park, Blanche, Eastern Weiss Lake, Little River Falls, Western Weiss Lake, Moshat, Ball Flat, Coloma and Weiss Dam.

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

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures 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, consider the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• 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.
• 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 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.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures 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 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 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:

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:

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.

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.

Dear Eric: My mother and her caretaker came to visit for two days. My mother has some form of dementia, even though we all feel that at times she plays it up.

My mother never missed an opportunity to hit or slap me as a child and once even broke a wooden fanny wacker over my head, which really enraged her. I think you get the picture.

Anyway, we went to dinner, and she looked at me and said, “Oh look, a stray hair,” and pulled it out of my head! She did not try to move it or let me move it over. It was especially upsetting for me because I have been trying to grow my hair out after I lost it all to chemotherapy.

I have made it clear to her caregiver that I will not be coming to visit her anymore. I feel that she has overstepped my physical integrity, and I get the willies whenever she tries to touch me.

During my last visit with her, there were times that she did not know who I was, and I did not feel safe with her.

Am I wrong after this incident to not want to see her again. Despite everything, I have always been a dutiful daughter, but I just feel that she crossed a line this time that I can’t deal with anymore.

– Hurt Daughter

Dear Daughter: Your mother’s abuse in the past is inexcusable. You don’t have to subject yourself to it in the present. You can and should prioritize keeping yourself emotionally and physically safe. Figure out what boundary feels right. That might mean no more physical contact, only phone calls and video visits. This is not cruel abandonment – she has a caretaker and, from your telling, her past behavior and her present capacity may make in-person meetings dangerous for both of you. Talk to her caretaker about the boundary you’re setting and get the caretaker’s help to continue to support your mother in whatever way feels safe without compromising your own well-being.

I know that this phase of life takes a lot of time and mental energy, but when you do find space, please talk to a therapist, counselor or trusted friend about what you experienced. What happened to you wasn’t right and you didn’t deserve it. You deserve the space and time to process it.

Read more Asking Eric and other advice columns.

Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.

Dear Eric: My 30-year-old son is severely physically disabled due to a debilitating muscle disease. He requires 100 percent assistance with all life functions. He does not have any cognitive disabilities, is very intelligent and earned a bachelor’s degree. My husband retired a couple of years ago and is his main caregiver.

People who are likely well-intentioned, ask how he is doing and when we respond that he is doing well despite the progression of his disease and that he handles his very challenging situation with grace and little complaint, they then follow up with questions about what he is doing, does he have plans to work and then oftentimes even start suggesting jobs that he could consider.

These people have no idea the challenges that he faces every day, and my husband and I feel that, as long as he is happy and satisfied, that is all that matters. We try to explain that having a job would create a lot of stress for him and would require my husband to be with him to assist at all times. Additionally, one item that we do not feel the need to share is that if he earned basically any more than minimum wage, he would lose his benefits.

We don’t think that we owe anyone an explanation and despite trying to briefly and kindly respond to their questions, they inevitably continue to press on about the topic.

We appreciate people asking about him but would also appreciate it if they would accept our response and move on to other topics of conversation. How can we reply to these insensitive interrogations without coming across as defensive or angry?

– Done Explaining

Dear Explaining: One option is to offer less in the way of an update. A simple “he’s doing well, thank you,” gives the well-intentioned inquisitor fewer avenues for offering suggestions. Another option is to kindly but firmly remind people that they don’t know what they’re talking about. “Oh, we’ve thought through all of that and more. Trust me, this is exactly where we need to be. We’ve had 30 years of practice navigating this, so we’ve become experts. It would take 30 years to catch you up, and I don’t want to bore you.”

You’re correct that you don’t owe anyone an explanation. So, whichever path you choose, also know that it’s perfectly fine – and not at all defensive – to interrupt a suggestion you never asked for and change the subject.

Read more Asking Eric and other advice columns.

Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.

The National Weather Service issued an updated weather alert at 6:05 p.m. on Thursday for strong thunderstorms until 6:30 p.m. for Tuscaloosa, Greene and Hale counties.

Residents may experience wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 6:05 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Moundville, or 16 miles southwest of Tuscaloosa, moving east at 20 mph,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Moundville, Knoxville, Mound State Park, Ralph, Elliots Creek, Wateroak, Moundville Airport, Phipps, Havana and Hull.

The weather service states, “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.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

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 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.
• 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 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.

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.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

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.

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

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

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.

USA Today is looking for the best sports bar in the U.S. – and they’ve picked two that you’re probably very familiar with.

The list, compiled by a panel of travel writers, singles out several, with readers invited to vote for the best through Aug. 18.

The Top 10 winning sports bars will be announced Aug. 27.

Why these watering holes? First, they aren’t part of any chains or franchises.

Secondly, they were singled out for “their electric atmospheres, abundance of big-screen TVs, top-tier food and drink menus, and comfortable seating that keeps sports fanatics coming back all year long.”

There’s Pensacola’s Flora-Bama, singled out for its view of the gulf and seafood offerings.

“With each visit, diners can choose between more than 20 TVs showcasing a wealth of different games, then sit down to snack on key lime shrimp, char-grilled oysters, and gulf grouper po’boys,” the list states.

Also making an appearance is Birmingham’s Paramount on 20th Street North. It gets singled out for its catering to sports fans and gamers.

“After a few rounds of pinball or Mario Kart, visitors can make their way to the bar for a plate of Jamaican jerk wings or a fresh grilled cheese, with plenty of craft beer options available to pair with a meal,” the list says.

And for those of you planning a trip to the SEC Championship in Atlanta, there’s The Beverly and The Brewhouse Cafe.

A report was issued from the National Weather Service on Thursday at 5:11 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 6 p.m. for Henry County.

Residents can look for wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 5:11 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Abbeville, moving east at 10 mph,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Abbeville, Shorterville, Walter F. George Lock And Dam, Edwin, Otho, Scottsboro Crossroads, Double Bridges, Hayes, Murphy Station, Graball, Screamer, Coates, Thomas Mill Creek, Lawrenceville, Abbeville Municipal A/P and Willis Crossroads.

The weather service adds, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures 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 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 shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

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

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

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

Visibility matters:

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:

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.

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.