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Steve Sarkisian shares thoughts on Ryan Grubb offense: ‘An attack-oriented group’

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian knows firsthand what it’s like to coach against a Ryan Grubb offense. Specifically, how challenging Grubb offenses can be.

First, Texas played Washington in the Alamo Bowl in 2022. The Huskies won. Then, Texas faced Washington in the College Football Playoff in 2023. The Huskies won that day, too, advancing to the national championship. Grubb ran both of those offenses.

Now, if Texas ends up facing Alabama in the postseason in 2025, Sarkisian’s team would face Grubb’s offense again this season. Grubb was hired as Alabama’s offensive coordinator and play-caller ahead of the 2025 season.

Sarkisian runs the Texas offense, so he wasn’t directly coaching against Grubb. But as head coach of the Longhorns, and a play-calling expert, Sarkisian is about as good as anyone outside of Grubb’s staff to provide a scouting report of the Grubb offense.

“They had a really good passing team,” Sarkisian said Tuesday at SEC Media Days. “(Quarterback) Michael Penix. The receivers. Definitely an attack-oriented group that’s going to attack you vertically with shots down the field. Going to tax you from the screen game. Multiple shifts, formations, things that challenge you that way. It’s definitely a pro style approach where the quarterback is going to have his opportunities to take his shots down the field.”

Nick Kelly is an Alabama beat writer for AL.com and the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X and Instagram.

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‘Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta’ follows stars as wellness retreat takes turn for the worse in this week’s new episode

An all new episode of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta premieres on MTV Tuesday, July 15 at 8/7c.

Those hoping to tune into season 13 of the hit MTV reality series can stream Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta through Philo, Fubo, DirecTV or Sling.

Philo, Fubo and DirecTV offer free trials for new subscribers while Sling offers its new subscribers half off their first month.

Previous episode recap

In case you missed the season 13 premiere episode last week, the gang returned for an all-new season, and two major storylines were introduced to viewers.

Along with Scrappy and Bambi playing significant roles in season 13’s debut episode, fans that caught the season premiere were also keyed in on Karlie’s recent, and very public, split from her husband of two years, Teleau.

Scrappy stepped into the spotlight when he began his attempt at finding new love, but despite his willingness to explore new connections, his past relationship traumas have created undeniable trust issues he’s going to have to deal with going forward.

Meanwhile, Bambi was the center of some of the episode’s most touching moments as she hit local wedding dress shops looking for the perfect dress for her special day.

What to expect from this week’s new episode

This week, viewers tuning in will follow Spice and Bambi as their wellness retreat takes a turn for the worse. Meanwhile, Salma Slims—a new addition to the Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta cast—takes over the ATL music scene, and Erica Dixon makes an unexpected appearance.

How to watch Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta season 13

Cord cutters interested in watching the latest season of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta can find it available for streaming through the streaming services listed below.

Philo: 7-day free trial ($28 a month after free trial ends)

Fubo: Free trial ($84.99 a month after free trial ends)

DirecTV: 5-day free trial ($86.99 a month after free trial ends)

Sling: 50% off first month ($45.99 a month after first month)

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the most affordable streaming platforms on the market. Known as an entertainment-focused streaming service, Philo offers its subscribers access to over 70 top-rated TV channels such as TLC, MTV, BET, AMC, CMT, Investigation Discovery and more.

New users can enjoy Philo’s 7-day free trial and continue to stream top channels, hit TV shows and movies on-demand for just $28 a month once the free trial expires.

Those looking to customize their flow of content even further on Philo can consider including add-ons such as MGM+, STARZ, and AMC+ in their subscription.

What is Fubo and DirecTV?

Fubo and DirecTV are two of the top streaming services steadily replacing traditional cable services. Both offer free trials to new subscribers, a plethora of popular live TV channels, on-demand streaming options and helpful features such as unlimited DVR storage.

Fubo considers itself a sports-focused live streaming service, but with over 100 live TV channels available through its base package at just $84.99 after its free trial, it offers much more to its subscribers.

Popular TV channels available through Fubo include ABC, FOX, BET, MTV, CNBC, MSNBC, USA and much more.

DirecTV mirrors Fubo by offering many of the same live TV channels and useful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNN, BET and much more.

Two other DirecTV packages are the Choice package (original price $114.99) and the Ultimate package (original price $129.99), both of which are part of an ongoing promotion that offers new subscribers $10 off the original price for the first three months of their subscription.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages can check them out here.

What is Sling?

Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to access top rated TV channels like MTV. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those who commit to a paid plan get half off the first month.

Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.

For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).

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‘Just like it was in high school’: Keldric Faulk on playing with younger brother at Auburn

According to the Pro Football Hall of Fame there have been 377 sets of brothers have played in the professional ranks.

Auburn football looks to add to that stat with Keldric and J.J. Faulk.

“It was just like it was in high school,” Keldric Faulk said. “He is my brother and also my best friend. So just having my best friend back in the same areas me is one of the best things in the world, what I dreamt about having. It’s been a dream just to have him up there just with me every day.”

Keldric and J.J. both played together at Highland Home high school in 2021-2022. The brothers led ed the Flying Squadron to a 13-2 overall record and the semifinals of the 2022 AHSAA 2A state playoffs.

As Keldric moved on to Auburn, J.J. took the reins of defensive captain at Highland Home, finishing 58 tackles with 13 TFL, 3 sacks, 19 QB hurries as a junior. In his senior year, J.J. was named the ASWA Class 2A defensive player of the year.

“It’s a special opportunity that not people can do,” J.J. Faulk told Al.com at ASWA banquet back in January. “I’m just blessed and fortunate to have that opportunity.”

Highland Home’s JJ Faulk is presented Class 2A Lineman of the Year by Alpha Insurance’s Grayson Blackwell and AHSAA assistant director J.T. Lawrence during the 2024 Mr. Football banquet in Montgomery, Ala., Jan. 28, 2024. (Will McLelland/[email protected])

“He’s pushed me every day and always showed me what hard work and dedication looked like. He basically paved the way for me. So, I’m excited to be up there with him.”

During SEC media days, Keldric talked about the improvements and growth he’s seen in J.J.’s game throughout the Tigers spring practices.

“He’s become a young man now,” Keldric Faulk said. “He was a kid but now he’s been here essentially all alone. I been helping him out of course but I try to let him figure things out on his own.”

“Whenever he needs advice from me that when I’ll step in. It’s a completely different ballgame from high school to college. So, I always tell him to prepare like a professional at this level.

Jerry Humphrey III covers Auburn sports forAL.com. You can follow him on X at @Jerryhump3or email him at [email protected].

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Prepare for strong thunderstorms in Southeast Alabama early Tuesday evening – gusts may reach 40 mph

The National Weather Service issued a report at 4:18 p.m. on Tuesday for strong thunderstorms until 5 p.m. for Dale, Geneva and Houston counties.

Residents may experience wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 4:18 p.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Blue Springs State Park to near Newton to near Midland City. Movement was southwest at 25 mph,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Daleville, Dothan, Fort Novosel, Ozark, Enterprise, Taylor, Midland City, Level Plains, Slocomb, Newton, Ariton, Pinckard, Kinsey, Malvern, Clayhatchee, Grimes, Napier Field, Hunt Field, Waterford and Hooper Stage Field.

The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.”

When lightning looms: Expert safety tips 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 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.
  • 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’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
  • Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

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

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

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

  • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, 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. 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.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

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

Beware of 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:

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

Slow down and stay cautious:

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

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes 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:

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 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.

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Is a Walmart+ membership worth it? 5 benefits of being a member

Walmart+ has quickly become one of the most popular retail-based memberships as more shoppers look to cut costs and add convenience to their daily routines, but most are skeptical at first if the cost is worth the reward.

Walmart+ comes with a variety of benefits that go beyond the average grocery haul. And, the best part is, you can test drive a membership with the 30-day free trial before making a final decision. However, if you’re still hesitant, here are just five of the many standout perks that make a Walmart+ membership worth it.

Free shipping and same-day grocery delivery

One of the biggest draws of Walmart+ is its free delivery options. Not only do members get unlimited free shipping on eligible items with no order minimum, they also get same-day delivery on groceries, household essentials and more, saving members not only money, but tons of time and effort in the long run.

Discounts at the pump

Walmart+ members can also save at the gas station, with up to 10 cents off per gallon every single time you want to fill up. This perk can be used at over 13,000 locations including Exxon, Mobil and select Walmart and Murphy USA stations. With fuel prices constantly fluctuating, this Walmart deal can pay off quickly, especially for daily commuters or frequent travelers.

Mobile Scan & Go checkout

Walmart+ in-store shoppers can take advantage of Walmart’s Scan & Go feature, which lets you scan items with your phone as you shop and pay through the app with no waiting in line required. This is another huge time-saver, especially for those who had to stop by the store last minute, but just want to get in and out as quickly as possible.

Free Paramount+ streaming access

A Walmart+ membership also just so happens to come with a free subscription to Paramount+ Essential (the ad-supported plan) which grants you access to popular shows, movies and live sports. This particular Walmart deal is a nice perk for anyone who is already paying for this plan out of pocket or is just interested getting a subscription.

Exclusive perks and partner deals

From discounted Burger King meals to free tire repair at Walmart Auto Centers, Walmart+ members also get rotating access to exclusive offers and partner perks. Some recent promotions have included free trials of Apple services, pet care support through Pawp and travel discounts through Expedia.

Those interested in a membership can checkout the full rundown of these benefits and more at Walmart.com/plus.

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Alabama faces heat advisories Wednesday: How to stay safe as temperature hits dangerous highs

Heat advisories have been issued for part of Alabama for Wednesday.

The National Weather Service expects highs on Wednesday will peak in the mid-90s, which is bad enough.

But tomorrow’s combination of heat and humidity will make it feel hotter in many spots, and the heat index could make it into the triple digits.

Heat advisories will be in effect on Wednesday for north and west Alabama (the counties in orange below):

The Alabama counties in orange will be under heat advisories on Wednesday.NWS
  • For north Alabama, a heat advisory will be in effect from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. for the following counties: Cullman, Limestone, Madison, Morgan, Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale and Lawrence. The weather service said the heat index could range between 105 and 109 degrees in those areas tomorrow afternoon.
  • For central Alabama, another heat advisory will be in effect from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. for these counties: Bibb, Blount, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Jefferson, Lamar,Marengo, Marion, Perry, Pickens, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Tuscaloosa, Walker and Winston. The heat index could climb as high as 106 in those counties on Wednesday.

Temperatures will back off, just a little, from Thursday through the weekend, with highs in the upper 80s to lower 90s expected, according to weather service forecasts.

The weather service offers these safety tips:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
  • Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
  • Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
  • Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  • Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
  • To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.

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Congress shuts down Epstein files release as every House Republican votes no

A Democratic effort to release the so-called Jeffrey Epstein files was blocked Tuesday along a party line vote Tuesday in the House of Representatives.

Every Democrat voted in favor of Rep. Ro Khanna’s, D-Calif., procedural measure that would have forced the Department of Justice to release the files online within 30 days.

Meanwhile, every House Republican in the chamber voted against the release, killing the measure.

Democrats have seized on the issue since the DOJ and FBI released a joint memo July 6 stating there was “no incriminating ‘client list’” and “no credible evidence” that Epstein blackmailed co-conspirators who sexually abused underaged girls provided by him, Axios first reported.

The memo stirred outrage among Trump’s most ardent supporters who trusted the president’s word during the campaign to release the files.

Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, said the Republicans who voted against the release of the files raises questions.

“Why after promising for all these years to release the Epstein files will President Trump not release them? And we know they were friends and we know they hung out and we know there are all these pictures together,” Raskin said.

He pointed out that Trump biographer Michael Wolff observed photos of Trump and Epstein with minor girls.

“Where does that leave us? That doesn’t look good if they then cover up all the information,” Raskin said. “Come clean and release the information as the Republicans have repeatedly promised to do.”

Khanna was behind another measure to release the files that did not get past the House Rules Committee on Monday night.

“They voted to block my amendment that called for the full release of the Epstein files while protecting the victims’ identities. Let’s just be clear: They voted to protect rich and powerful men who were abusing, assaulting and abandoning young women,” Khanna said on the House floor Tuesday while explaining his measure that failed a short while later.

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Hayden man faces manslaughter charge in 21-year-old girlfriend’s 2024 train crossing death

A 21-year-old Hayden man is charged in the death of his girlfriend who was killed when police say he recklessly tried to beat a train and failed.

LaDonald Dewayne Phillips Jr. went before a Jefferson County Bessemer Cutoff judge Tuesday to face a charge of manslaughter in last year’s traffic crash death of 21-year-old Claudia Mae Dreffs.

Phillips was arrested last week on the felony charge.

At the time of his arrest, he was already awaiting trial on a charge that he was driving recklessly and endangered Dreffs the year before her 2024 death.

The fatal crash happened at 1:17 p.m. on Oct. 30, at 32nd Street and Carolina Avenue in Bessemer.

Phillips was the driver of a Chevrolet Suburban that Wednesday afternoon, traveling westbound on 32nd and tried to pass as the crossing arms were down and lights flashing.

The Amtrak train was traveling south from Birmingham to New Orleans.

Charging documents against Phillips allege he caused Dreffs’ death “in a reckless and wanton manner with disregard for human life.”

Another vehicle was stopped at the railroad crossing, documents state, and Phillips drove around that vehicle to try to beat the train and was struck.

An SUV was struck by a train in Bessemer on Oct. 30, 2024.Carol Robinson

Dreffs and Phillips were both ejected from the SUV.

Dreffs was pronounced dead at 1:22 p.m., about 50 yards from the crossing.

Phillips was taken to UAB Hospital with critical injuries.

At the time of the crash, Phillips was already facing a charge of domestic violence-reckless endangerment of Dreffs.

According to court records, Phillips on Thanksgiving Day 2023 was speeding and driving recklessly without his lights on when he crashed through a locked chain link gate, creating the risk of serious injury.

Bessemer Cutoff Assistant District Attorney Lori Frasure asked that his bond be revoked in that case, which a judge ordered in June.

At the time of his arrest on the manslaughter charge, Phillips was in the Blount County Jail on charges of domestic violence, DUI, and driving while his license was revoked.

He pleaded guilty last week to a Blount County charge of domestic violence-harassment of his new girlfriend after he threatened to harm her and dragged her through the house and took her phone while she was trying to leave.

Phillips is set to return to court before Judge David Carpenter on July 24 for a preliminary hearing and a bond hearing.

He remains held in the Jefferson County Jail.

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‘Road Wars’ spotlights road rage incident in season 5 premiere

A brand new season of the hit A&E reality series Road Wars premieres on the network Tuesday, July 15 at 9/8c.

Those looking to check out the latest season of the long-running series can stream Road Wars season five through Philo (free trial), DirecTV (free trial) or Sling (50% off first month).

What is Road Wars about?

For those unfamiliar with Road Wars, the show further proves that roadways can be a wild, dangerous and unpredictable place; with violent road rage incidents increasing drastically over the last decade, “road raging” is a human behavior that has become widely known and is one of the many threats to everyone on the road.

Road Wars takes a deep dive into American roadways, examining extreme human behavior, wild water and insane accidents causing trouble for drivers all over the country.

Season five kicks off in Missouri where a rideshare driver is repeatedly rammed by a trailing sedan for no apparent reason. Meanwhile, a cyclist is thrown from his bike when an approaching car rear-ends him, and a mechanic in Georgia has to answer to police after an incident on the road.

How to watch Road Wars season 5

Cord cutters eager to check out the new season of Road Wars can stream the premiere live through Philo, DirecTV or Sling.

Both Philo and DirecTV offer free trials for new subscribers to enjoy before committing to a paid plan while Sling offers those that commit to a paid subscription half off their first month.

Out of the three streaming services listed above, Philo is the cheapest at just $28 a month after its 7-day free trial concludes.

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the most affordable streaming platforms on the market. Known as an entertainment-focused streaming service, Philo offers its subscribers access to over 70 top-rated TV channels such as TLC, MTV, BET, AMC, CMT, Investigation Discovery and more.

New users can enjoy Philo’s 7-day free trial and continue to stream top channels, hit TV shows and movies on-demand for just $28 a month once the free trial expires.

Those looking to customize their flow of content even further on Philo can consider including add-ons such as MGM+, STARZ, and AMC+ in their subscription.

What is DirecTV?

DirecTV is a top streaming service perfect for those looking to access a plethora of live TV channels and enjoy helpful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.

DirecTV has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allows subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. With genre packs, users can get the channels and content they want without filler channel overload. Packs start at just $34.99 a month.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages and the new genre packs can check them out here.

What is Sling?

Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to access top-rated TV channels like A&E. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those who commit to a paid plan get half off the first month.

Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.

For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

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Marble-sized hail predicted with thunderstorms in Henry County Tuesday – wind gusts reaching 40 mph

A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Tuesday at 3:36 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 4 p.m. for Henry County.

Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and marble-sized hail (0.5 inches) are likely.

“At 3:36 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 9 miles northwest of Blakely, moving southwest at 15 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 Fort Gaines, Columbia, Haleburg, Shorterville, Walter F. George Lock And Dam, Barnes, Miller, Zetto, Hayes, Rock Hill, Hilton and Hardwickburg.

According to the weather service, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

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.
  • 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 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 heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

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:

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:

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.

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:

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

Visibility matters:

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

Watch out for slippery roads:

The 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 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.

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.

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