26 Jan 2021 | 09:01 AM UTC
US: Disruptions to persist north of Birmingham, Ala., through Jan. 26 following passage of tornado /update 1
Disruptions likely in areas north of Birmingham, Ala., US, especially Fultondale, through Jan. 26 due to tornado damage; warnings lifted.
Event
Emergency crews are likely to continue responding to multiple reports of structural damages, fallen debris, and downed power lines in central Jefferson County, Alabama, through Jan. 26, after a tornado touched down earlier in the day. Disruptions are likely to be most severe in Fultondale city and surrounding areas north of Birmingham, which is the worst affected. Storm-related damages have been reported between Fultondale and Center Point as well. The US National Weather Service (NWS) has lifted its tornado warnings in the area, though a tornado watch will remain in place in some parts of Alamaba through the early morning hours of Jan. 26. Officials have set up a shelter at the Gardendale Civic Center for residents of Fultondale. There have been reports of injuries, but no confirmed fatalities, due to the tornado
Business, transport, and utility disruptions are likely to persist in parts of Jefferson County through at least Jan. 26 as authorities continue with clean-up and repair operations. Downed power lines may cause utility disruptions.
Advice
Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in affected areas; some roads could be closed for days. Plan accordingly for commercial, transport, and logistical disruptions in the affected parts of Jefferson County, especially Fultondale and surrounding areas, through at least Jan. 26. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur. Heed instructions from the authorities.
