Investigators from the National Weather Service will fan out today to gauge the strength of storms that hit Alabama, killing at least five. Several homes were destroyed, trees were splintered and businesses damaged. Thousands of customers were left without power. No deaths were immediately reported in the severe weather in Georgia. Several school districts were closed or delayed today due to the damage. Jason Holmes is a forecaster at the National Weather Service. He says it even after a storm it is important to be prepared. “
Charge your cell phones, have batteries ready for flashlights in the event of a power interruption,” he said. “It’s good for the family to have a plan, know where you and your kids are going to go.”
Holmes says that plan also includes ways to stay informed and safe even if your power is out due to violent weather.
“Have flashlights, battery operated radio, first aid kits, also, just have your cell phones charged. Continue to have a tv or radio station that you listen to for weather updates. The more information you have available, the better decisions you’ll make.”
Governor Ivey issued a state of emergency for 46 of Alabama’s 67 counties ahead of the severe weather that swept through the south yesterday.
