Alabama News

General

Which Alabama school won the most team championships in the AHSAA this year?

Seventy-five AHSAA schools won at least one team championship during the 2024-2025 athletic season, which concluded with the state baseball and softball finals this week.

Scottsboro High School led the way with seven state championships. Vestavia Hills followed with six. Thompson and Hoover tied with five each. Mountain Brook rounded out the top five with four titles.

Here is a list of the team state championships won during the 2024-2025 athletic year. E-Sports winners are listed at the bottom but did not figure into the overall team totals.

FALL

FOOTBALL

1A: Wadley

2A: Reeltown

3A: Mars Hill Bible

4A: Jackson

5A: Montgomery Catholic

6A: Parker

7A: Thompson

FLAG FOOTBALL

1A-5A: Montgomery Catholic

6A-7A: Central-Phenix City

VOLLEYBALL

1A: Spring Garden

2A: Pleasant Valley

3A: Ohatchee

4A: Prattville Christian

5A: UMS-Wright

6A: Spanish Fort

7A: McGill-Toolen

CROSS COUNTRY

Boys

1A-2A: Mars Hill Bible

3A: J.B. Pennington

4A: Hamilton

5A: Providence Christian

6A: Mountain Brook

7A: Huntsville

Girls

1A-2A: Cold Springs

3A: Montgomery Academy

4A: Whitesburg Christian

5A: Scottsboro

6A: Mountain Brook

7A: Auburn

SWIMMING AND DIVING

Boys

1A-5A: Scottsboro

6A-7A: Huntsville

Girls

1A-5A: Westminster Christian

6A-7A: Bob Jones

WINTER

BASKETBALL

Boys

1A: R.C. Hatch

2A: Providence Christian

3A: Montgomery Academy

4A: Jackson

5A: Vigor

6A: Paul Bryant

7A: Hoover

Girls

1A: Spring Garden

2A: Pisgah

3A: Lauderdale County

4A: Trinity

5A: Scottsboro

6A: Park Crossing

7A: Hoover

BOWLING

Boys

1A-5A: Etowah

6A-7A: Vestavia Hills

Girls

1A-5A: Scottsboro

6A-7A: Thompson

INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD

Boys

1A-3A: Dadeville

4A-5A: Hamilton

6A: Homewood

7A: Hoover

Girls

1A-3A: Altamont

4A-5A: Bayside Academy

6A: Chelsea

7A: Hoover

WRESTLING

Boys

1A-4A: Tallassee

5A: Scottsboro

6A: Athens

7A: Thompson

Girls

1A-5A: Weaver

6A-7A: Thompson

SPRING

BASEBALL

1A: Hackleburg

2A: Vincent

3A: Glenwood

4A: Deshler

5A: American Christian

6A: Hartselle

7A: Tuscaloosa County

SOFTBALL

1A: Kinston

2A: Zion Chapel

3A: Wicksburg

4A: Orange Beach

5A: Moody

6A: Helena

7A: Thompson

GOLF

Boys

1A-2A: Bayshore Christian

3A: Lee-Scott Academy

4A: Haleyville

5A: West Point

6A: Homewood

7A: Vestavia Hills

Girls

1A-3A: Wicksburg

4A-5A: Tuscaloosa Academy

6A: Pike Road

7A: Auburn

OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD

Boys

1A: Winterboro

2A: Loachapoka

3A: Weaver

4A: Anniston

5A: Scottsboro

6A: Homewood

7A: Vestavia Hills

Girls

1A: Winterboro

2A: Cold Springs

3A: Whitesburg Christian

4A: Randolph

5A: Scottsboro

6A: Chelsea

7A: Hoover

SOCCER

Boys

1A-3A: Collinsville

4A: Westminster-Oak Mountain

5A: Guntersville

6A: Southside-Gadsden

7A: Montgomery Academy

Girls

1A-3A: Lee-Scott Academy

4A: St. John Paul II

5A: Westminster Christian

6A: Briarwood Christian

7A: Vestavia Hills

TENNIS

Boys

1A-3A: Tuscaloosa Academy

4A-5A: Briarwood Christian

6A: Mountain Brook

7A: Vestavia Hills

Girls

1A-3A: Lauderdale County

4A-5A: Sardis

6A: Mountain Brook

7A: Vestavia Hills

E-SPORTS

Spring 2025

Mario Kart Deluxe – Auburn High School

NBA 2K – Columbia High School

Splatoon 3 – Columbia High School

Madden – Pelham High School

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Thompson High School

Rocket League – Bob Jones High School

Fall 2024

NBA2K – Eufaula High School

Rocket League – Bob Jones High School

Super Smash Bros. – Hoover High School

Splatoon 3 – Hazel Green High School

Mario Kart – Auburn High School

Madden – Bob Jones High School

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General

Severe thunderstorm watch in place for East Central Alabama until Sunday midday

A severe thunderstorm watch was issued by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 7:14 a.m. valid between 7 a.m. and noon in effect until noon for Calhoun, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Randolph and Tallapoosa counties.

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

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

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

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

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

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 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:

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

Visibility matters:

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

Watch out for slippery roads:

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

Jefferson and Shelby counties placed under a flash flood warning Sunday morning caused by thunderstorms

On Sunday at 7:06 a.m. the National Weather Service released a flash flood warning in effect until 9:30 a.m. for Jefferson and Shelby counties.

“At 7:06 a.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts up to 1 inch are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly,” according to the weather service. “Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Birmingham, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Alabaster, Bessemer, Homewood, Pelham, Mountain Brook, Trussville, Helena, Hueytown, Gardendale, Irondale, Leeds, Moody, Fairfield, Fultondale, Center Point, Pleasant Grove and Clay.

The weather service comments, “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 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 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 does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice 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’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:

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.

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 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.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

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 rapid water flow:

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

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

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.

Visibility matters:

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

Watch out for slippery roads:

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.
• 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

Goodman: Alabama’s own, Chris Richards, dominates the FA Cup final

This is an opinion column.

_____________________

It’s not just that a kid from Hoover, Ala., won the FA Cup on Saturday in Wembley Stadium. It’s how Chris Richards did it.

He didn’t simply represent Alabama and the United States in the world’s oldest national soccer competition. Richards dominated for Crystal Palace in its 1-0 victory against Manchester City. He shined.

He starred.

He was a brick wall and the best player on the field.

Richards was South London’s Alabama Slammer, shutting down Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and making it seem easy.

Haaland is considered one of the top forwards in the world. He’s big and he’s strong and he looks like what you would imagine a Viking king might look like back in the day. But not on this day, though. Haaland wasn’t tough enough for Richards, who is emerging as an international soccer star just as the 2026 World Cup comes into focus.

Richards plays right back for Crystal Palace in the Premier League and center-back for the United States Men’s National Team. He’s now a legend for Palace, a proud club that traces its roots back to 1861, but had never won a major trophy until shocking the world inside Wembley and hoisting the FA Cup on high.

It might be difficult for average sports fans in Alabama to fully appreciate what Richards represents for soccer in the United States. Americans are always being second-guessed in top leagues in the world, and especially in England. Christian Pulisic, for example, washed out at Chelsea. It’s a long list of American hopefuls who couldn’t make it in the Premier League.

For a guy from Alabama to step into the spotlight and play soccer with such grit and determination in the most physical league in the world is nothing short of groundbreaking.

Richards, who is 25 years old, is changing the perception of American-born soccer players abroad, and at a time when the USMNT needs fresh excitement and a shot of confidence, too.

Pulisic is a fine player, but the USMNT needs to make Richards the brand and the prototype going into this summer’s international window.

Once dubbed the golden generation, the current group of USMNT players are still searching for its identity. People are calling the team soft and overrated. I’m not ready to join that chorus, but the time is now to find a leader who can galvanize this team’s resolve. If new USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino wants to send a message, then he will make Richards the Americans’ permanent captain leading into June’s group stage of the Gold Cup.

The Americans need to get back to playing angry, desperate soccer for 90 minutes. That’s the way Richards has been playing for Palace. Can it inspire the national team in time for the World Cup? That’s the assignment.

The USMNT doesn’t just need a little Alabama toughness on its team. The Americans need to be led by it.

No more of this cute, fancy stuff on the pitch. The USMNT needs to get back to what Americans do best, fight in the dirt and get bloody in the box. What happened to the Clint Dempseys of American soccer? What happened to American desire and playing with passion?

Give the captain’s armband to Richards and tell him to start cracking skulls in the training sessions.

But, first, it’s time to enjoy Sweet Home Alabama.

With his long season in England in the books, Richards will now return to the Birmingham area for some much-needed offseason rest. He should be celebrated in town like a superstar. Richards is putting Birmingham and Alabama on the map internationally for something other than its fractured history.

He’s the future. He’s the franchise. Richards is already investing in local club Birmingham Legion FC. Expect his involvement with Legion to grow this summer. Birmingham, it’s time to wake up and embrace this homegrown gift. Richards represents potential and should be on billboards and marketing campaigns from now until the start of the World Cup.

Richards began this season as a reserve for Palace, but the team has been one of the hottest in the Premier League ever since Alabama’s own was elevated to starter. Richards persevered and all of his hard work behind the scenes is paying off. Is he the best defender to ever play for the United States? It’s time to start having that discussion.

No doubt Manchester City’s Haaland is now a believer.

BE HEARD

Got a question for Joe? Want to get something off your chest? Send Joe an email about what’s on your mind. Let your voice be heard. Ask him anything.

Joseph Goodman is the lead sports columnist for the Alabama Media Group, and author of the book “We Want Bama: A Season of Hope and the Making of Nick Saban’s Ultimate Team.”

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General

Severe storms stay in Alabama forecast, here’s when to expect them

More severe storms were plaguing parts of Alabama on Sunday morning, and severe weather will be in the forecast for the state through Wednesday morning.

A complex of severe storms was working through central Alabama on Sunday morning.

Those storms have prompted numerous severe thunderstorm warnings. Winds in some of the storms have been near hurricane force, according to the National Weather Service.

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of central and east Alabama in response and will be in effect until noon CDT:

The Alabama counties in the watch are: Chambers, Clay, Tallapoosa, Cleburne, Calhoun and Randolph.

Numerous downed trees and power outages were being reported in parts of the Tuscaloosa and Birmingham metro areas on Sunday morning — barely 24 hours after another batch of storms hit some of those same areas.

According to Poweroutage.us there were at least 41,000 without power in Alabama as of around 7:15 a.m. Sunday, with most of those being in Pickens, Tuscaloosa and Jefferson counties so far.

Rain and storms will continue to be possible through the day today, and there’s a chance for a few more severe storms.

Those storms could bring more damaging wind gusts, hail and heavy rain. The tornado risk is very low.

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has a Level 1 out of 5 (marginal) risk for severe weather for all of north and much of central Alabama today (see today’s forecast map at the top of this post).

A Level 1 risk means isolated severe storms will be possible.

There will be another Level 1 risk for just northern Alabama on Monday:

Then a more substantial severe weather risk is shaping up for Tuesday afternoon into Tuesday night.

The Storm Prediction Center has already added a Level 3 out of 5 (enhanced) risk for parts of north and west Alabama to its forecast for Tuesday, and a Level 2 risk for the rest of north Alabama and part of central Alabama.

Here’s the outlook for Tuesday:

Tuesday’s storms could again bring the risk of damaging winds, hail, heavy rain — and a few tornadoes, according to the weather service.

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General

How an Alabama beach town is about to change forever with arrival of its first commercial airport

Five years ago, Jesse Fosnaugh and his family inched their way to the Alabama Gulf Coast after a grueling 12-hour drive from Branson, Missouri.“

“It was two-lane traffic through the United States, and you knew how to get here with everyone following their GPS like they were in a Conga line,” said Fosnaugh. “It was the same way in the other direction. It was a long drive.”

Fast forward to today, and Fosnaugh isn’t just visiting Gulf Shores — he‘s leading a transformation. As the new director of the city’s first commercial airport, he‘s helping to launch a milestone moment that is a rarity in U.S. aviation: the first-ever commercial flight service to a city that’s never had it before.

“It’s a game-changer and this community has worked hard for it,” he said.

Flights begin

The inaugural Allegiant Air flight takes place Wednesday from Gulf Shores inside a two-gate, $8 million airport that, as of Friday, was in its final stages of construction.

The first flight from McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, Tenn., will arrive at Gulf Shores filled with passengers around 1:14 p.m. The first departure from Gulf Shores to Tennessee is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. that night.

While a first for Gulf Shores, the inaugural flights also represent a first for Allegiant, the Las Vegas-based low-cost airline that has grown into a powerhouse for vacation travelers. The airline has never offered service at an Alabama airport before.

“Allegiant’s new service isn’t just about adding flights,” said Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft. “It’s about connecting Gulf Shores to major cities in a way that will make a real difference for our community.”

The company, which announced its new service in Gulf Shores in November, will operate two year round routes and four that are seasonal. Each of the six flights will occur twice weekly, running on a Wednesday to Sunday schedule.

The flights connect to airports in the Midwest, which are popular regions of the country where coastal Alabama attracts its tourists. The airports are in and around the cities of Knoxville, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Houston, Kansas City, and Fayetteville, Ark.

The return flights to the cities will offer coastal Alabama residents an opportunity to visit the Midwest markets that are home to large metropolitan regions with professional sports franchises, museums, amusement parks, trendy downtown districts and more.

“I encourage people to check that out,” said Fosnaugh, adding that his flight from Gulf Shores will be next week, where he will meet up with his daughter – a college student in Kansas City – and the two will catch a Kansas Royals baseball game on Friday.

“There are absolutely plenty of things you can do,” he said. “If you’re fan of a MLB team, NFL team, look at going to those destinations.”

Big goals

The goals for the airport are lofty, with Fosnaugh anticipating Gulf Shores International Airport luring 60,000 passengers this year. Of those passengers, 80% are expected to be visitors from one of the six destinations with about 20% of coastal Alabama residents flying out.

At that estimate, it would place Gulf Shores immediately ahead of Dothan Regional Airport, which had around 37,000 enplanements in 2023, and within reach of Montgomery Regional Airport’s 181,000 enplanements.

The longer-term goal is for the Gulf Shores International Airport’s initial destinations to be a success, and to lead to more Allegiant destinations.

“Residents will have more convenient travel options, and visitors will find it easier than ever to reach Alabama’s beaches to experience our local businesses, restaurants, and everything that makes this place special,” Craft said. “We deeply appreciate Allegiant’s commitment to Gulf Shores and look forward to building a lasting partnership as we welcome this new chapter together.”

Fosnaugh said the hope is for the evolution of the airport, with Allegiant Air’s presence, is to put it on par with Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport located within Eglin Air Force Base in Northwest Florida.

That could make Gulf Shores potentially the second busiest airport in Alabama, trailing only Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, which sees around 1.5 million passengers each year. According to Federal Aviation Administration data, more than 1.1 million passengers passed through Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport in 2023, up 13.3% from the 985,567 passengers in 2022.

Related: How high will Gulf Shores fly? Early projections suggest potential to be Alabama’s No. 2 airport

The activity would represent quite a change for an airport that has been owned by the city for 42 years but has mostly served as an active facility for private, charter airplanes.

However, Fosnaugh said he doesn’t see the airport – and its potential growth – eroding the city’s “Small Town, Big Beach” tagline.

“I don’t think we need to sacrifice any of our values or the things that we hold dear to us,” Fosnaugh said. “I very much feel like we have a small town feel and will continue to have that … 32 miles of beach is a lot of beach. That’s what we have here. We are now sharing this with people we never have before.”

More immediately, officials have goals of alleviating some of the roads that are inundated with congestion during peak tourism activity that often begins after Memorial Day and lasts until early August.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have long been a drive-to destination, meaning that well over 90% of visitors to the coastal beaches arrive via an automobile. Though there is no targeted statistics, Fosnaugh said he believes the airport will offer relief on Alabama State Route 59 and other roadways north of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Beth Gendler, president & CEO with Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, said the new flights will make arriving to the beaches quicker and affordable while helping reduce travel times.

“Our existing visitors have a new option for getting away to the beach for a long weekend or for a full week, and these flights should encourage new visitors to give our destination a try because of the great prices and cutting hours off the time it takes to get here if driving,” she said.

“We really like Allegiant’s model of nonstop flights and are hopeful Alabama’s beaches will see the same success and expansion to more Allegiant markets as some of our neighboring destination,” she added.

Noise concerns

Fosnaugh said the new commercial activity should not contribute to additional noise along the beaches. He said the airport will host fewer than three commercial flights departing daily, and he does not believe it will be a nuisance to the neighborhoods.

“The primary route for arrival is over the Bay, it’s over the water,” he said. “And to the west, we‘re talking about a little bit over the Wharf in Orange Beach, but that’s it. When you talk about Craft Farms or over the beaches, it’s just happening that way.”

Fosnaugh noted that the airport has long been an active hub for private and charter carriers, and that noise has never been a problem before.

“I would say that people do bring it up like they believe it will be an issue,” Fosnaugh said. “Respectfully, it’s not founded in a basis of information. We‘re taking zero to three flights per day.”

Final touches

For now, the finishing touches are underway to get the airport prepared for its grand opening and inaugural flights.

Inside the terminal, workers are bolting down seating in the passenger terminal, installing pictures, hanging new lighting, and finalizing everything that needs to be done before Wednesday’s inaugural showcase.

“We‘re ready to go,” Fosnaugh said. “We are ready for May 21.”

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General

Walmart says it must raise prices due to tariffs: Here’s what Trump says it should do instead

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday ripped into Walmart, saying on social media that the retail giant should eat the additional costs created by his tariffs.

As Trump has jacked up import taxes, he has tried to assure a skeptical public that foreign producers would pay for those taxes and that retailers and automakers would absorb the additional expenses. Most economic analyses are deeply skeptical of those claims and have warned that the trade penalties would worsen inflation. Walmart warned on Thursday that everything from bananas to children’s car seats could increase in price.

Trump, in his Truth Social post, lashed out at the retailer, which employs 1.6 million people in the United States. He said the company, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, should sacrifice its profits for the sake of his economic agenda that he says will eventually lead to more domestic jobs in manufacturing.

READ MORE: Nation’s largest retailer raising prices due to Trump’s tariffs

“Walmart should STOP trying to blame Tariffs as the reason for raising prices throughout the chain,” Trump posted. “Walmart made BILLIONS OF DOLLARS last year, far more than expected. Between Walmart and China they should, as is said, “EAT THE TARIFFS,” and not charge valued customers ANYTHING. I’ll be watching, and so will your customers!!!”

The posting by the Republican president reflected the increasingly awkward series of choices that many major American companies face as a result of his tariffs, from deteriorating sales to the possibility of incurring Trump’s wrath. Trump has similarly warned domestic automakers to not raise their prices, even though outside analyses say his tariffs would raise production costs.

So far, those tariffs have darkened the mood of an otherwise resilient U.S. economy. The preliminary reading of the University of Michigan survey of consumer sentiment on Friday slipped to its second lowest measure on record, with roughly 75% of respondents “spontaneously” mentioning tariffs as they largely expected inflation to accelerate.

In April, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon was among the retail executives who met with Trump at the White House to discuss tariffs. But the Trump administration went forward despite warnings and has attacked other companies such as Amazon and Apple that are struggling with the disruptions to their supply chains.

Walmart chief financial officer John David Rainey said he thinks $350 car seats made in China will soon cost an additional $100, a 29% price increase.

“We’re wired to keep prices low, but there’s a limit to what we can bear, or any retailer for that matter,” he told The Associated Press on Thursday after the company reported strong first-quarter sales.

The administration recently ratcheted down its 145% tariffs on China to 30% for a 90-day period. Trump has placed tariffs as high as 25% on Mexico and Canada due to illegal immigration and drug trafficking, harming the relationship with America’s two largest trading partners.

There is a universal baseline tariff of 10% on most countries as Trump promises to reach trade deals in the coming weeks after having shocked the financial markets in early April by charging higher import taxes based on trade deficits with other countries. Trump insists he intends to preserve the tariffs as a revenue source and that a framework agreement with the United Kingdom would largely keep the 10% tariff rate in place.

Trump has also placed import taxes on autos, steel and aluminum and plans to do so on pharmaceutical drugs, among other products.

The tariffs and Trump’s own reversals on how much he should charge have generated uncertainty across the U.S. economy, such that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has held the central bank’s benchmark rates steady until there is more clarity. Powell has warned that tariffs can both hurt growth and raise prices.

On Saturday, Trump repeated his calls for Powell to cut the benchmark rates. That could cause inflation to accelerate, but the president has maintained that inflationary pressures have largely disappeared from the economy.

“Too Late Powell, a man legendary for being Too Late, will probably blow it again – But who knows???” Trump posted on Truth Social.

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See the 2024 population change in every Alabama city and town

Alabama grew last year, adding about 40,000 new residents. And nearly two thirds of the state’s 67 counties gained population.

And we now know more about which parts of the state grew — and which ones shrank — thanks to new population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau last week.

The census estimated populations for cities and towns across the United States as of July 2024. In Alabama, estimates were made for 463 places, from tiny Oak Hill — home to just nine people — to bustling Huntsville, Alabama’s largest city.

RELATED: These were Alabama’s fastest growing cities in 2024

Most Alabama cities grew, with about 58% adding people from 2023 to 2024.

In terms of total people, no city added more than Huntsville. The city added more than 4,000 people, putting its total population over 230,000. Meanwhile, Alabama’s other large cities — Birmingham, Montgomery and Mobile — all lost people last year.

For growth rate, the small town of Brookside in the Birmingham area was the fastest growing in the state, with a growth of 13.2%. For large cities, Foley, in Baldwin County near the state’s beaches, was No. 1, at 12% growth.

RELATED: A small south Alabama city added 8 people per day in 2024. Now it’s trying to slow down

You can see the total population change from 2023 to 2024, and since the last decennial census in 2020, for every city and town in Alabama in the table below.

[Can’y see the list? Click here.]

Ramsey Archibald is an award winning data reporter and editor at al.com. To read more Alabama data stories, click here. Have an idea for an Alabama data story? Email [email protected] or follow him on Twitter and Bluesky.

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Flood advisory issued for Jefferson and Shelby counties until Sunday morning due to persistent rain

The National Weather Service released a flood advisory at 6:29 a.m. on Sunday in effect until 9:30 a.m. for Jefferson and Shelby counties.

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

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas,” explains the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”

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 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:

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:

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.

Avoid 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.

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. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of rapid water flow:

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:

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 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.

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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Update: Thunderstorms with quarter-sized hail and damaging winds in Central Alabama Sunday

On Sunday at 7:19 a.m. an updated severe thunderstorm warning was released by the National Weather Service in effect until 7:30 a.m. for Clay, St. Clair and Talladega counties.

The storms are packing wind gusts of up to 70 mph and quarter-sized hail (1 inch).

“At 7:18 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Talladega to near Waldo to 6 miles north of Parkdale, moving east at 70 mph,” says the weather service. “Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Country Club Estates, Alpine Bay Resort, Winterboro, Gantts Quarry, Bon Air, Talladega Superspeedway, Jackson Shoals, Ironaton, Lincoln, Talladega Municipal Airport, Mignon, Gunthertown, St. Clair County Airport, Sylacauga Municipal Airport, Oak Grove, Alpine, Logan Martin Lake, Sylacauga, Sycamore and Coosa Island.

According to the weather service, “For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. Continuous cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms. Move indoors immediately. Lightning is one of nature’s leading killers. Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.”

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

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

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

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
• 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, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

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

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures 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 rapid water flow:

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

Maintain safe driving distances:

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

Slow down and stay cautious:

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

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

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

Mind your windshield wipers:

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

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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