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General

Pickens County placed under a flood advisory Sunday morning triggered by substantial downpours

At 7:34 a.m. on Sunday, the National Weather Service issued a flood advisory in effect until 9 a.m. for Pickens County.

The weather service states, “Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas,” states the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request they pass this information to the National Weather Service when you can do so safely.”

Your guide to weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings

Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

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.

Weathering the storm: Flood safety guidelines from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

Follow evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to 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.

Stay away from 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 periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is imperative to avoid driving through any water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the weather service, most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

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 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:

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.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

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.

Prioritize visibility:

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

Watch out for slippery roads:

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

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

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.

General

St. Paul’s Janie Ford dominates Mobile’s Challenge of Champions Track Meet

St. Paul’s senior Janie Ford made sure her last home meet was one to remember.

The Vanderbilt-bound star captured Outstanding Female Meet Performer honors in Saturday’s Elite Division of the Mobile Challenge of Champions held at St. Paul’s E.E. Delaney Stadium, and she did it with style in windy conditions.

Ford won the 100 meters in a wind-aided 11.68 seconds, the 100-meter hurdles in 14.50 and the long jump (18 feet, 6 ¾ inches). In addition, she anchored the winning 4 X 100-meter relay team, which along with Leah Tillman, Grayson Akridge and Emily Lockhart, ran 47.68, breaking the existing record by more than a second.

“I couldn’t pass up the chance to do the 100 because of the meet and the competition,” said Ford, who edged Baker’s Myla Reed (11.74). “Going into the meet, I wasn’t expecting to win, but I was excited to have somebody next to me who would push me.”

Jaden Youngblood of Mansfield High in Mansfield, Louisiana, was the Outstanding Male Meet Performer. Youngblood narrowly edged Blount’s Lazeric Johnson in the 110-meter high hurdles (14.13 to 14.14), and won the 300-meter hurdles in 38.10, defeating Leondre Franklin of Gulfport’s Harrison Central (38.91) and Blount’s Kantrell Benjamin (39.03).

Despite the windy conditions, several other athletes had stellar performances. Lowen Averi of Bowdon High in Bowdon, Ga., won the girls mile going away in 4:55.28, as well as the 2-mile in 10:23.39, narrowly missing breaking the meet record of 10:22.58 set by fellow Georgian Emma Grace Hurley of Fellowship Christian.

“I went out pretty hard in the first 400 (in the mile),” Averi said. “I didn’t really notice the win, but it gave me an extra push on the straightaway. It’s a blessing to win, and I appreciate the opportunity.”

Another athlete who had a strong performance was UMS-Wright’s Peyton Holderer, who won a hotly-contested boys’ mile in 4:19.50, coming from behind to narrowly defeat Jackson Jarrett of Lafayette, La.’s David Thibodeaux STEM Academy (4:19.80) and Bayshore Christian’s Caden Phillippi (4:20.10).

“I hadn’t really been competing much because I had Achilles tendonitis,” he said. “So, I started in the back because I didn’t want to overdo myself, and gave it all I had in the last 400.”

Two of the Alabama’s top sprinters had solid performances. Carver-Montgomery’s Maurice Conner won the 100 in a wind-aided 10.44, while Fairhope’s Ty Watkins, who finished second to Conner in the 100, won the 200 in 20.87.

“There are a lot of fast guys in the state, and I’m ready for the competition,” said Conner, who also ran a leg on the victorious 4 X 100-meter relay team (41.17). “We had a personal record in the 4 X 100, and coming off that, I was satisfied with the time.”

“Coming off my time in the 200, I knew I could run faster,” said Watkins, who tore an ACL before last season. “There was a big improvement, and during track season last year I improved my strength. People are definitely going to see more of me.”

Other notable performances by Alabama athletes included:

— Gaston High’s Kodie Bogle winning the boys’ javelin (174-8).

— Pell City’s River Richard winning the boys’ 2-mile (9:38.81).

— McGill-Toolen’s Shepherd Schmohl winning the pole vault (13-6).

— UMS-Wright’s Mae Elliott winning the girls’ high jump (5-2).

— Baker’s Kendall Brown winning the triple jump (37-10), and finishing second in the long jump (18-0 ½).

— Central-Tuscaloosa’s Mer’rica Trone winning the girls shot put (41-5 3/4)

General

Severe storms likely today in Alabama: Hail, tornadoes, floods possible

Strong storms and heavy rain continued to move across Alabama on Sunday morning after a very busy night.

A tornado watch remains in effect for part of the state until 10 a.m.:

A tornado watch is in effect for part of Alabama until 10 a.m.SPC

The Alabama counties in the watch are: Autauga, Bibb, Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Etowah, Greene, Hale, Jefferson, Marengo, Perry, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Talladega, Tallapoosa and Tuscaloosa.

But forecasters are cautioning about the threat for heavy rain as well. Much of north Alabama was under flash flood warnings as of 7 a.m. Sunday (Alabama counties in red):

The northern half of the state also remains under a flood watch, and the National Weather Service said 2 to 4 inches of rain will be possible in those areas, with locally higher amounts.

Strong to severe storms continued to slowly push through the state as of Sunday morning.

Those storms could spawn isolated tornadoes as well as damaging winds and hail.

Overnight the weather service offices in Huntsville and Birmingham issued several tornado warnings.

The weather service in Huntsville has gotten multiple reports of downed trees in Colbert County.

Storms are expected to sink southward today, and heavy rain will continue.

The weather service warned drivers to steer clear of flooded roads.

General

Goodyear 400 free livestream: How to watch NASCAR race today, TV, schedule

The NASCAR Cup Series continues this afternoon, as racers compete in the Goodyear 400. The race will begin at 2 p.m. CT on FS1. Fans can watch this event for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV Stream and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users.

William Byron currently sits atop the NASCAR Cup Series standings, as he possesses 259 points. He has earned three top 5 finishes this season, but he struggled in last week’s race. He ended the previous competition in 22nd place, so he will look to bounce back this afternoon.

Kyle Larson has 243 points this season, which is good enough for second place in the NASCAR Cup Series. He ended last week’s race in fifth place, so he will try to perform similarly in the Goodyear 400 today.

Denny Hamlin earned his first win of the season last week, which helped him jump to sixth place in the NASCAR Cup Series standings. Due to his great performance, he is just 41 points behind first place.

Fans can watch this NASCAR race for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV Stream and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users.

General

Update: Thunderstorms with damaging winds in Alabama Sunday – winds gusting up to 60 mph

At 6:56 a.m. on Sunday, the National Weather Service issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 8 a.m. for Choctaw, Clarke and Washington counties.

Residents should prepare for wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

“At 6:55 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Kinterbish to 5 miles northwest of Toxey to 7 miles southeast of Lumberton, moving east at 30 mph,” states the weather service. “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Toxey, Clara, New Augusta, Lisman, Silas, Coffeeville, Pennington, McLain, Waynesboro, Gilbertown, Beaumont, State Line, Richton, Millry, Butler and Buckatunna.

The weather service adds, “Remain alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. for southwestern Alabama and southeastern Mississippi.”

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

Wait for the all-clear:

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

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

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

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re 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.

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

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

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

Beware of 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:

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:

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

Watch out for slippery roads:

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

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

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

Mind your windshield wipers:

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

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.

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

Julio Jones and the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Lance Alworth or Torry Holt?

Julio Jones announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday.

When it comes to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is the former Foley High School and Alabama star going to be like Lance Alworth or Torry Holt?

According to Pro Football Reference, the NFL player whose career most resembles Jones’ is Alworth. The wide receiver known as “Bambi” entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility with the Class of 1978, and in 2019, Alworth was chosen for the NFL All-Time Team as part of the league’s centennial observance.

The NFL player whose career statistics most resemble Jones’ is Holt. The wide receiver known as “Big Game” has been eligible for consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame for 11 years, but he hasn’t been enshrined yet.

Jones completed his NFL career with 914 receptions for 13,703 yards in 166 regular-season games.

Twelve other wide receivers have as many receptions and receiving yards as Jones. Eight are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame – Tim Brown, Isaac Bruce, Cris Carter, Marvin Harrison, Andre Johnson, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens and Jerry Rice.

Two of the 13 are not eligible for Hall of Fame consideration yet – Jones and Larry Fitzgerald. A player must have been out of football for five full seasons before becoming eligible.

Three of the 13 are eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame but have not been enshrined. Reggie Wayne has been eligible for six years, and Anquan Boldin and Steve Smith have been eligible for four years apiece.

Among the 13 players, Jones has the fewest touchdown receptions with 66.

Jones is among the 16 wide receivers who have been selected for at least seven Pro Bowls. Twelve are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Three are not eligible, with Jones joining A.J. Green and Tyreek Hill.

The one player not on either list is Holt.

Holt has the same number of Pro Bowl selections as Jones with seven apiece and statistics that closely resemble Jones’.

Holt had 920 receptions for 13,382 yards and 74 touchdowns in 173 regular-season games. That’s six more receptions, 321 fewer receiving yards and eight more touchdown receptions than Jones in seven more games.

Holt’s eight 1,000-yard receiving seasons are one more than Jones had, but both players led the NFL in receiving yards twice. Jones was a two-time first-team All-Pro selection while Holt earned that honor once, but Holt has a Super Bowl victory on his resume that Jones lacks.

Jones’ collection of feats features one of the NFL’s six 300-yard receiving games, and he has the most 250-yard receiving games in league history with three. The only other player with more than one is the Cincinnati Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase.

Jones’ 59 100-yard receiving games is tied for the third-most in NFL history. Holt is tied for 10th with 47, and his top game featured 203 receiving yards.

Pro Football Reference assigns Jones a Hall of Fame monitor score of 108.60. The Hall of Fame monitor is a metric based on career statistics and accolades designed to estimate a player’s chances of reaching the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Jones’ score ranks 13th among wide receivers in NFL history and is eight points above that of the average Hall of Fame wide receiver.

Of the 12 players with higher scores than Jones has, nine are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and one (Fitzgerald) isn’t eligible yet. The two still waiting for enshrinement are Wayne and Holt.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame already has recognized Jones’ excellence by selecting him for its All-Decade team for the 2010s. He joined Fitzgerald, Antonio Brown and Calvin Johnson as the wide receivers on the team.

Every player on the Pro Football Hall of Fame All-Decade team for the four preceding selections – the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and 2000s – are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Because Jones wasn’t with a team in the 2024 season, he has four more seasons on his Hall of Fame countdown, which will make him eligible for consideration for the first time in the selection cycle for the Class of 2029.

FOR MORE OF AL.COM’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL, GO TO OUR NFL PAGE

Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.

General

JD Crowe: Trump tariffs temper tantrum: ‘Dumbest trade war’ disaster in history

This is an opinion cartoon.

“The Dumbest Trade War in History”

That’s what the Wall Street Journal editorial board says about President Trump’s temper tantrum tariffs.

More from the WSJ: Trump Owns The Economy Now.

“Let’s concede that intelligence isn’t everything,” writes Mona Charen for The Bulwark. “We all know brilliant people who’ve done dumb things.

“So it’s important not to overrate intelligence, even in leaders. But President Trump is no ordinary man. His stubborn strain of stupidity belongs on a list of deadly sins. And that weak-mindedness is now plunging the world into chaos and potentially into depression.

“Trump’s peculiar blind spots and obsessions now threaten everyone.”

Read all of Charen’s opinion piece here.

Dammit. Looks like Trump’s baby balloon tariffs diaper has exploded into a global stock market Hindenburg disaster.

We can go on and on about Trump’s lack of empathy for real people or his vulgar disrespect to our allies while openly courting his tyrant heart-throb V-Bro Putin: “No tariffs for you, my dictator blood brother buddy!”

But what’s the word on the street about these trade war tariffs?

Word on the Antarctic Islands are the penguins are P-O’d. Somebody should draw a cartoon about that.

Now let’s hear Stephen Colbert’s report on Trump’s Wall Street bloodbath:

“Today was the first day of trading on Wall Street since Trump slathered our economy in honey and staked it down next to a fire ant hill, and the Dow Jones nosedived 1700 points, joining the S&P and NASDAQ in having their biggest drop since 2020,” the late-night host added. “So, worst day for our economy since COVID.”

“Just a little reminder, this time, he’s the disease,” Colbert quipped before referencing Trump’s reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, “I’m just spitballing here. Has anyone thought about injecting our money with bleach?”

True stories and stuff by JD Crowe

The mysterious ‘Bubble Guy’ of Fairhope and the art of bubble Zen – al.com

How I met Dr. Seuss

Robert Plant head-butted me. Thanks, David Coverdale

I was ZZ Top’s drummer for a night and got kidnapped by groupies

Check out more cartoons and stuff by JD Crowe

JD Crowe is the cartoonist for AL.com. He won the RFK Human Rights Award for Editorial Cartoons in 2020. In 2018, he was awarded the Rex Babin Memorial Award by the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Follow JD on Facebook, Twitter @Crowejam and Instagram @JDCrowepix. Give him a holler at [email protected].

General

Brace for marble-sized hail with thunderstorms in Sumter and Marengo counties Sunday – wind gusts reaching 50 mph

The National Weather Service issued a report at 6:51 a.m. on Sunday for strong thunderstorms until 7:15 a.m. for Sumter and Marengo counties.

The storms are packing wind gusts of up to 50 mph and marble-sized hail (0.5 inches).

“At 6:50 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from Lauderdale to near Alamucha to near Snell. Movement was northeast at 55 mph,” according to 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 Old Mallard Airport, U.S. 80, AL 28, Emelle, York, Boyd, Livingston, Belmont, Sumterville, Lilita, The University Of West Alabama, McDowell, Bluffport, Cuba, Gainesville, Bellamy, I 20 Welcome Center At Cuba, Whitfield, Ward, Payneville and and Epes.

According to the weather service, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. for southwestern and west central Alabama.”

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

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

To 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 without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

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

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:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

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, 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:

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.

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

Update: Flood advisory issued for Lauderdale County until Monday afternoon caused by intense rainfall

On Sunday at 6:49 a.m. an updated flood advisory was released by the National Weather Service in effect until Monday at 1 p.m. for Lauderdale County.

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

“At 14.0 feet, Low-lying and agricultural areas along the river begin to be impacted, as well as Iron City Park and the Sycamore Campground,” describes the weather service. “If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and find an alternative route. The next statement will be issued Monday afternoon at 1 p.m.”

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

Flash flood warning: Take action!

Flood warning: Take action!

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

Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that 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.

Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

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:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Evacuate promptly for safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

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 high ground if 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 periods of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the risk of flooding escalates. Remember this crucial advice: never attempt to drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. 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.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

Beware of rapid water flow:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Slow down and drive with care:

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

Choose your lane wisely:

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

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by 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.
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Alabama Senate expands religious exemptions for immunizations despite worries of outbreak

The Alabama Senate Thursday passed a bill expanding the pool of people who can claim a religious exemption from vaccines and allowing them to do so without explanation.

SB 85, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, extends the existing religious exemption requirements from parents of K-12 students to college students. It also would not require either to provide or explain the reason for the exception or have it certified or approved by local school boards.

The legislation also mandates that public colleges and universities provide both religious and medical exemptions if they require students to be vaccinated or tested for diseases. The bill passed 26-5.

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Orr said during the floor debate the current system creates unnecessary hurdles and potential costs for parents exercising their religious beliefs, saying that roughly half the states allow a similar exemption process.

“It’s not a discretionary function. It is a mandatory function that they have to give you the religious exemption paper. So, why are we doing that? Let’s just let parents affirm that they have a religious exemption,” Orr said to reporters after the Senate adjourned.

Several Democrats raised concerns about public health and the potential spread of disease. The state’s measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination rate fell below 94% in 2022-23. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 95% of the population needs to be immunized to achieve herd immunity.

Sen. Robert Stewart, D-Selma, said that the state has historically “worked hard as a state, as a country, to have strong, robust infection control. He said that “when we talk about religious freedom, we have a duty to keep our communities safe.”

“Public health is a community project, and we should all work together to ensure that our communities are healthy, are viable,” Steward said.

Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, proposed an amendment requiring a person claiming a vaccine exemption to submit a board-approved physical evaluation form or the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s Preparticipation Physical Education form. The amendment does not provide an enforcement mechanism or sanctions for not submitting the form. The amendment was approved 21-7,

“At least it gives us an understanding that this child has had some medical attention within the last 12 months prior to them opting out of this particular vaccine,” Singleton said. “If they don’t want to take it to go to school, at least the school now you’re bypassing the health department.”

But Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, wanted the bill to go further and questioned the focus solely on religious exemptions.

“Why do you have to have a… religious exemption? Why can’t it just be a conscientious objection? What are the agnostic people going to do? What are the atheists going to do if they don’t want to do it?” Melson asked Orr.

Orr said that he “would agree” but that he doesn’t think that providing conscientious exemption to vaccines, often referred to as a personal exemption, would pass either chamber.

“It would be more of an uphill challenge than it already is,” Orr said. “So I would love to do that if I were king for a day, but I’m not king.”

Sen. Merika Coleman, D-Birmingham, said she was concerned about removing the Alabama Department of Public Health’s role in tracking exemptions. She said that when there may be outbreaks, health departments will be less equipped to trace a potential virus.

“My fear is when we don’t leave it there at the health department, then we’ll never be able to find out where patient zero is and if there is some type of outbreak, how to be able to bring it under control,” Coleman said.

A similar version of the bill passed the Senate last year but failed in the House.