General News

General

Flood watch affecting North Alabama until Sunday evening caused by intense rainfall

On Saturday at 10:26 a.m. a flood watch was issued by the National Weather Service valid from 6 p.m. until Sunday 7 p.m. for Lauderdale, Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Morgan, Marshall, Jackson, DeKalb and Cullman counties.

The weather service describes, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible.”

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks,” explains the weather service. “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.”

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

  • Flash flood warning: Take action!

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

  • Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

  • 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.

When floods strike: Guidelines from the weather service for your protection

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

Move to higher ground:

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

Follow evacuation orders:

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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes 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 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 if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it appears. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

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.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

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

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 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.

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General

Flood watch in place for Alabama until Monday evening caused by intense downpours

On Saturday at 10:04 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a flood watch valid from 9 p.m. until Monday 7 p.m. for Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Winston, Walker, Blount, Etowah, Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, Pickens, Tuscaloosa, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Clay, Randolph, Sumter, Greene, Hale, Perry, Bibb, Chilton, Coosa, Tallapoosa, Chambers, Marengo, Dallas, Autauga, Lowndes, Elmore, Montgomery, Macon, Bullock, Lee, Russell, Pike and Barbour counties.

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

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas,” adds the weather service. “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.”

Breaking down 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 declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

  • 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.

Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

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

Seek higher ground:

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

Adhere to 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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid 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 sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

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

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

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:

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:

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:

  • 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.

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General

Duke-Houston free livestream: How to watch NCAA Tournament Final Four game, TV, schedule

The No. 1 Duke Blue Devils play against the No. 1 Houston Cougars in an NCAA Tournament Final Four game tonight. The matchup will begin at 7:49 p.m. CT on CBS. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV Stream and Fubo TV.

The Blue Devils enter this matchup with a 35-3 record, and they defeated No. 2 Alabama 85-65 in their Elite 8 game.

During the victory, four Duke players scored double-digit points: Cooper Flagg, Khaman Maluach, Kon Knueppel, and Tyrese Proctor. If these players perform similarly tonight, then Duke will be a difficult team to beat.

Notably, Flagg leads the team in points, rebounds, and assists this season.

The Cougars enter this matchup with a 34-4 record, and they defeated No. 2 Tennessee 69-50 in their Elite 8 game.

During the victory, L.J. Cryer led the Houston offense. He scored 17 points and accrued four assists, so he will look to continue his offensive success tonight.

Cryer leads the team in scoring, as he averages more than 15 points per game.

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

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Auburn basketball’s Miles Kelly on his journey to the Final Four

Miles Kelly scratched off all his college basketball goals in his one season with Auburn basketball.

After the Tigers clinched a spot in the Final Four, Kelly cherished the moment, celebrating with his family in his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia.

“It’s everything I’ve ever dreamed of since I been in college, to have a deep run in March Madness, for this to be able to come true in my last year of college basketball, to be able to make the Final Four and a chance to win the national championship — it means a lot,” Kelly said.

His older sister Myla Kelly recounts all the memories of Miles dreaming about a moment that’s soon become reality.

“Miles has always wanted to play on a big stage. Growing up we would watch the final four together as a family,” Myla Kelly said to AL.com. “It was always fun picking rival teams and seeing how the tournament played out. We even had a house fire in the kitchen of our house one year because we were distracted watching the final four.”

After the Tigers Elite 8 win over Michigan State, Kelly invited his mom on the court to celebrate with him postgame.

When talking about that moment, Kelly explained how his time at Georgia Tech prepared him for success at Auburn.

“That just meant a lot to me. Being at Georgia Tech for the last three year and making the Final Four in my last year of college is special,” Kelly said.

Kelly added that growing up his family supported Auburn so playing in Saturday’s semifinal is a full circle moment.

“We thought it was a great move for his career and supported him wholeheartedly. Auburn is a great school, and we have been welcomed with open arms,” Myla Kelly said.

“I’m super proud and excited for Miles! I have seen how much time and effort he has to put into perfecting his craft. So, this is a culmination to all the hard work and effort he has put in over the years.”

Kelly and the Auburn Tigers will play Florida in the first semifinal game of the Final Four, with tipoff scheduled for 5:09 p.m. on CBS.

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

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General

Flood warning in place for Lawrence County from Sunday to Tuesday, moderate flooding is expected

The National Weather Service released a flood warning at 9:16 a.m. on Saturday valid from Sunday 3 p.m. until Tuesday 11 a.m. for Lawrence County.

The weather service adds, “Moderate flooding is forecast for Big Nance Creek at Courtland.”

“At 16.0 feet, Water begins to cover roads south of downtown Courtland,” explains the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

  • 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 declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

  • 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 does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes 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.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

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

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

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

Seek higher ground when trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the weather service. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

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:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

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

Slow down and drive with care:

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

Choose your lane wisely:

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 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.
  • 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.

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General

Update: Flood warning for Madison County for Sunday and Monday – minor flooding is anticipated

An updated flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service on Saturday at 9:12 a.m. valid from Sunday 11 a.m. until Monday 5 p.m. for Madison County.

The weather service describes, “Minor flooding is forecast for Flint River at Brownsboro.”

“At 17.0 feet, Water floods a large field on the upstream left bank and is flooding large portions of the downstream left bank,” states the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

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 declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

  • 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 does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the weather service

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

Seek 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.

Adhere to 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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes 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.

Evacuate promptly for 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 heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the weather service. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

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

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

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

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

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

Choose your lane wisely:

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

Prioritize visibility:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

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

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

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

Mind your windshield wipers:

  • Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
  • If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

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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General

Update: Clarke and Washington counties placed under a flood warning from Wednesday and until further notice

At 9:11 a.m. on Saturday, the National Weather Service issued an updated flood warning valid from Wednesday 2 p.m. until further notice for Clarke and Washington counties.

The weather service says, “Minor flooding is forecast for Tombigbee River near Leroy.”

“At 24.0 feet, Flooding of low-lying farm and pasturelands begins. Cattle in low-lying areas should be moved to higher ground. Water approaches low-lying roads on west side of river,” comments the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. The next statement will be issued when updates occur.”

Breaking down weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings

  • Flash flood warning: Take action!

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

  • Flood warning: Take action!

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

  • Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is 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 does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

When floods strike: Guidelines from the weather service for your protection

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

Follow evacuation orders:

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

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

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

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

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

Swift evacuation for your safety:

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

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

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

Seek higher ground when trapped:

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

When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

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:

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

Choose your lane wisely:

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

Prioritize visibility:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The 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 impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
  • When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

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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Dodgers-Phillies free livestream: How to watch Shohei Ohtani today, TV, schedule

The Los Angeles Dodgers play against the Philadelphia Phillies in an MLB game today. The matchup will begin at 3:05 p.m. CT on FS1. Fans can watch this game 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.

The Dodgers have started their 2025 campaign red-hot, as they entered this series with an 8-0 record.

Shohei Ohtani and Will Smith have led the Los Angeles offense this season. After the first eight games, Ohtani led the team in hits and runs scored. Meanwhile, Smith has led the Los Angeles offense in batting average for most of the season.

The Phillies entered this series with a 5-1 record, and they recently swept Colorado in a three-game series.

In order to win this afternoon, the Phillies will need to rely on their designated hitter Kyle Schwarber. After six games, he led the team with four home runs and a .308 batting average. If Schwarber continues to find success at the plate, then Philadelphia could win this series.

Fans can watch this MLB game 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.

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Chad Baker-Mazara shares his favorite moment of the Auburn basketball season

Chad Baker-Mazara’s fiery spirit on the court has led Auburn basketball all the way to the Final Four.

In the twilight of the 2024-25 season, Mazara took the time to reflect on the year he’s had with Tigers.

“There have been a couple. We won the Maui Invitational. We can say the Houston win was a pretty good one. Making it here is a good one,” Mazara said. But my favorite moment this season has to be off the court and being able to have my dad living back with me.”

Originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Mazara’s father Derrek Baker is the Head Defensive Basketball Coach for the Dominican Republic Men’s National Basketball Team.

He played college basketball for the South Carolina State Bulldogs from 1984-85 and professionally overseas. Last year’s NCAA tournament game against Yale was his first time seeing Mazara play at Auburn.

“He made a sacrifice. And I think his boss back at home appreciates that. He talked to him and said, ‘You know, I’ve got to get my son right. I haven’t been with him in a long time! And he moved in with me in Auburn, and he’s been with me throughout the whole season,” Mazara said.

“Me and him really didn’t have a relationship like that, and him moving in with me, gave us the opportunity to have those hard conversations and the father/son moments, even more.”

The presence of his father has helped Mazara a lot as he was named a finalist for the Julius Irving small forward of the year award.

Aside from his on-court success, Mazara said having his dad around taught him how to properly handle his emotions.

“That, to me, has been like my favorite moment for this year. Being able to have him there, he gives me a little more confidence,” Mazara added. “He stays in my ear, a little bit more and it’s different when it comes from Pops because I don’t want to let him down. Being able to see him every day just helps me out overall, mentally, physically, everything.”

Now on the Final Four stage preparing for one of the biggest games of his life, Mazara wants to execute at the highest level to make the other father figure in his life proud, Auburn coach Bruce Pearl.

“He’s been through a lot in his coaching career and at the beginning of the year, he told us how special we could really be with this team. A lot of people didn’t believe that. He stayed on our ears, telling us, ‘you guys really got this; you just have to focus and lock in’,” Mazara said.

“We will be able to determine our own future having a coach who just brings that confidence in you. We just want to make sure we get him one, because I feel like we owe it to him for putting this team together, the way he did.”

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

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Heavy metal group Disturbed is coming to Birmingham in April: Here’s how to get last minute tickets

The Chicago-born heavy metal group Disturbed is currently on their 2025 tour and have an upcoming show date at the BJCC Legacy Arena in Birmingham on Wednesday, April 16.

Since the early ‘90s, Disturbed has dominated the heavy rock/metal genre, gaining them nearly 14 billion streams, consistent sold-out shows, and respect from the rock genre community.

The three-time Grammy nominated group are responsible for producing consecutive No. 1 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 for songs “Believe,” “Ten Thousand Fists,” “Indestructible,” and “Asylum.” Popular album releases by the group include “The Sickness,” “Evolution,” “Divisive,” and “Believe.”

Joining them on their 2025 tour are Daughtry and Nothing More. Daughtry, considered one of the best-selling roll bands of the century has been around since the early 2000s and has done their fair share of sold-out shows. Nothing More, like Daughtry, has been around since the early 2000s and has amassed a steady stream of fans through their elemental projects.

Where can I find tickets for the April 16 show?

Those interested in seeing Disturbed perform live in Birmingham can purchase tickets through secondary markets such as Vivid Seats, StubHub, Viagogo and Seat Geek.

The cheapest tickets for the upcoming Birmingham show start at: Vivid Seats ($46 per person) | StubHub ($39 per person) | Viagogo ($40 per person) | Seat Geek ($45 per person)

More upcoming Disturbed tour dates

April 4 – Buffalo, New York

April 5 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

April 9 – Indianapolis, Indiana

April 12 – Charlotte, North Carolina

April 14 – Raleigh, North Carolina

April 18 – Sunrise, Florida

April 23 – Duluth, Georgia

April 25 – San Antonio, Texas

April 26 – Fort Worth, Texas

April 28 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

May 5 – Seattle, Washington

May 7 – Portland, Oregon

May 9 – Sacramento, California

May 10 – San Francisco, California

May 13 – Inglewood, California

For additional 2025 Disturbed tour dates, visit Vivid Seats, StubHub, Viagogo and Seat Geek.

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