MCHD Emergency Preparedness

03/15/2025

➡️ 6pm Update - There is currently a brief lull in storm intensity but storms should re-intensify over the next few hours as another disturbance approaches from the west.

03/15/2025

Multiple Safer Places will open Saturday, March 15, at 10 a.m. and will remain open until "all clear."

Call 2-1-1 in Mobile County for information and/or transportation.

LIST OF SAFER PLACES:

Chickasaw First Baptist Church • open for anyone • 92 5th Street, Chickasaw, AL 36611

McKemie Place • open for women only • (COVID test required)

Ryan’s Refuge • open for anyone including those with pets • 554 South Craft Highway, Mobile AL 36617

Salvation Army • open for men only • 1009 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604

Waterfront Rescue Mission • open for men only • 279 North Washington Avenue, Mobile, AL 36603

WHY?
Strong to severe thunderstorms are predicted to move through the area Saturday, March 15, between the early afternoon and midnight. In addition to heavy rainfall, this storm brings the potential for tornadic activity, sustained winds over 40 mph, and anticipated wind gusts of 70 mph or more.

WHAT'S A SAFER PLACE?
A Safer Place is a place to go during severe weather that is safer than the outdoors, a mobile home, or similar. They are open for the duration of a weather event. Safer Places meet structural requirements, but these facilities are generously provided by organizations to assist their neighbors. They may not be certified tornado shelters, and absolute safety is not guaranteed.

WHAT ELSE?
Unless indicated, pets are not allowed except for service animals.

Bring any food, water, blankets, toiletries, medications, etc. that may be needed during the immediate threat and duration of the weather event.

Waterfront Rescue Mission is serving as the lead organization. • United Way 2-1-1 is the primary point of contact. • Mobile County Emergency Management Agency is assisting with coordination. • The City of Mobile and Mobile County are not opening shelters.

03/15/2025

➡️ A few safety tips to keep in mind if you need to shelter during severe weather tonight or tomorrow →

🔦 Have a flashlight or headlamp handy.

📱 Have a method of communication (cell phone, walkie-talkie, etc).

🔑 Grab your wallet & keys.

🐶🐱 Don’t forget about the pets!

02/25/2025

The Mobile County Commission applauds Mobile County EMA Cold Weather partners for serving the community during the winter storm of Jan. 2025. The storm was historic for snowfall, and the sustained below-freezing temperatures made conditions life-threatening. From Sunday, Jan. 19, through Saturday, Jan. 25, almost 1,000 people were sheltered, more than 3,250 meals were served, and nearly 500 volunteer hours were expended in an unprecedented, coordinated sheltering effort.

02/24/2025

The Mobile County Commission began today’s session by presenting a proclamation to several entities who assisted during the winter storm that struck during January. Among those recognized were the MCHD Emergency Preparedness office and the Mobile County Healthcare Emergency Response Coalition. https://mchd.org/county-commission-gives-thanks-for-winter-weather-response-02-24-25/

02/21/2025

02/08/2025

🔦🔋🧯Alabama's annual severe weather preparedness sales tax holiday is Friday 2/21 through Sunday 2/23. You can purchase eligible preparedness items free of state sales tax. Info: revenue.alabama.gov/sales-use/sales-tax-holidays

🟢Items must cost less than $60 per item
🟢Portable generators must be $1,000 or less

This post is for Severe Weather Awareness Week.

01/23/2025

The “Impassable Roads Advisory” has now lifted. While weather conditions are improving, freezing temperatures are expected tonight and into the early morning hours. Baldwin County EMA advises residents to use EXTREME CAUTION when traveling. Icy patches may persist on shaded roads, bridges, and overpasses, particularly during the early hours.

Key Reminders for Safety
• Drive at reduced speeds and allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Be mindful of black ice, which is difficult to detect and can create hazardous conditions.
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to maintain control of your vehicle.

The Baldwin County Commission has also announced that all county-maintained facilities, including courthouses, will reopen on Friday, January 24th, during normal operating hours.

The Baldwin County Highway Department continues to monitor roadways and address any remaining hazardous areas.

For the latest updates and information, visit www.BaldwinCountyEMA.com or follow Baldwin County EMA on social media.

01/23/2025

TRAFFIC UPDATE (9am Thursday):

The following areas are closed due to ice. Please find alternate routes. (Photo from Cottage Hill Road between Sollie Road and Hillcrest Road):

Cottage Hill Road at Sollie Road

Girby Road between Lloyds Lane and Rue Preserve

Hillcrest Road at Wall Street

Cottage Hill Road between Pesnell Court and Royal Carriage Drive

Knollwood Road at Vista Bonita Drive

01/23/2025