ALABAMA, USA — Some schools and businesses are dismissing early, closing, or changing schedules due to the potential for severe weather.
Albertville City Schools will release today, April 6, at 12:30 p.m.
Arab City Schools will dismiss two hours early today, April 6. No after-school activities.
Boaz City Schools: Due to the threat of inclement weather, all Boaz City Schools will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. today, April 6, 2022. Busses will begin running at 12:30 p.m. All extended day services and afternoon activities are canceled.
Cullman County: All Cullman County school campuses will dismiss at 12:00 p.m. today, April 6, due to the threat of severe weather.
Guntersville City Schools will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6, 2022.
Marshall County Schools: Due to a recent update from EMA concerning an increased risk for severe weather, Marshall County Schools will release today at 12:30pm.
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It's important to be prepared and know the differences between the two more common watches and warnings associated with severe weather.
What's the difference between a "watch" and a "warning?
The difference between a watch and a warning is that one (watch) is the potential for a weather event to happen and the other (warning) means that the event is happening.
A Flash Flood Watch is very similar to a Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Watch It means conditions are favorable for flooding and you should be prepared especially if you live in an area that is prone to flooding.
A Flash Flood Warning means flooding is nearing or it is currently happening and immediate and appropriate action should be taken.
It's also important to remember that Flash Flooding is a rapid rise in water. It is defined by the NWS as "A rapid and extreme flow of high water into a normally dry area, or a rapid water level rise in a stream or creek above a predetermined flood level, beginning within six hours of the causative event."
Remember, it takes very little water to wash a person away. Only about 6.0 inches. Just 12 inches of water can wash a standard-size SUV or car away. 18 inches of water can wash larger vehicles such as full-size trucks and larger SUVs away.
There are things we can do in order to prepare ahead weather that we know could lead to flooding:
- Always just simply be aware of whether you live or work in an area that is prone to flooding.
- Always check with your insurance for proper coverage.
- Clear the storm drains around your home. While this may not technically be your job it can potentially save a lot of fuss.
- Always have electronic devices charged. This applies to any sort of dangerous weather.
