SYLACAUGA, Ala. – A significant severe weather event is expected to impact Talladega County and the Coosa Valley area on Saturday, March 15, with the potential for life-threatening conditions. The National Weather Service has elevated the risk level to 5 out of 5 for central Alabama, including the Greater Sylacauga area.
The Sylacauga Fire Department has issued a strong warning on social media, urging residents to stay weather-aware throughout the day. Of note is the extreme rarity of this high-risk designation, which has only occurred a few times in U.S. history on the second day of a multi-day event.
Residents are advised to have multiple ways to receive severe weather alerts, including National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radios, mobile apps with notifications enabled, and local television or radio broadcasts. Outdoor warning sirens should not be relied upon as the sole method of notification.
Officials stress the importance of knowing where to seek shelter. The safest locations are basements or small interior rooms on the lowest level of a home. Those in manufactured homes should make arrangements to evacuate to a sturdier structure or a designated storm shelter. While sheltering, individuals are encouraged to wear helmets for head protection.
Storm shelters will be available for those in need, including Mignon Baptist Church, which will open its fellowship hall at 2:00 p.m. Other shelters include:
Childersburg Community Shelter – 85 Graves Ave., Childersburg
Lay Lake Volunteer Fire Department – 700 Heaslett Rd., Childersburg
Town of Oak Grove’s Shelter – 390 Landers Loop, Oak Grove
Coosa Valley Rescue Squad Headquarters – 1410 Edwards St., Sylacauga
Robert S. Limbaugh Community Center – 300 First St. SE, Childersburg
Rules for shelters include prohibitions on alcohol, drugs, and weapons, as well as restrictions on pets and unaccompanied minors.
The timing of the storm system is expected between 2:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon and 1:00 a.m. early Sunday morning, with rapidly changing conditions throughout the day.
Gov. Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency for all 67 Alabama counties, effective Friday at 2:00 p.m.
“It is critical that everyone stays very aware of their local forecasts,” Gov. Ivey expressed in a press release. “Now is the time to make any preparations and have a plan.”
Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant, monitor updates, and take necessary precautions. In case of emergency, dial 911.
