If you lived in Alabama in January of 2014 , you don’t need a weather report to remember it. Two inches of snow fell—and the state came to a complete standstill. What started as a light dusting quickly turned into one of the most memorable days in recent Southern history. Before anyone quite realized what was happening, thousands of people were stranded. The snow itself wasn’t the real problem, it was the timing. The wintery mix began falling just as schools and businesses were releasing and closing early. Traffic flooded interstates, highways, city streets, and back roads. The temperature dropped, and what began as wet pavement quickly turned into sheets of ice. In true Southern fashion, we were not prepared for what came to be known as “Snowmageddon.” More than a decade later, it is still fresh on our memory. The lesson we learned the hard way is that in the South, it’s not the snow, it’s the ice. Snowmageddon forever changed how Alabama, and much of the South, approaches winter weather! We may smile about it now, but no one in Riverside will ever forget the day our town stood still under two inches of snow and ice. All the more reason to be prepared! Get #WinterReady with stocked & updated Winter Emergency Kits. Kit ideas include: Home: Battery-powered radio Flashlight Portable chargers First aid kit Blankets. Car: Flashlight & extra batteries Portable phone charger First Aid Kit Basic Tool Kit Jumper Cables and Emergency Flares Warm Clothes and Blankets  Ice Scraper Non-perishable snack food and Water For more info visit: ready.gov/winter-weather and www.weather.gov/bmx/#

Did you know that flash floods are among the deadliest weather hazards? Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of floods because they combine the destructive power of a flood with incredible speed. Unlike river floods that build over days, flash floods can strike within minutes of heavy rain. Water levels can rise several feet in less than an hour and just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet, while 12–18 inches can sweep away vehicles. Floods often occur at night or in places far from where rain fell, leaving people unprepared. Floodwaters can also hide sinkholes, washed-out roads, and downed power lines. Alabama’s geography and climate create special challenges when it comes to flash flooding. Soil type and saturation level significantly impact flash flood risks. When the ground is already sat urated from previous rain, it has little capacity to absorb additional water, leading to rapid runoff. Urban Cities have many paved surfaces, causing rapid runoff. Creeks, streams, and other small waterways in rural areas can overflow quickly, trapping residents with little warning. While meteorologists can issue flood alerts, flash floods happen so quickly that many people find themselves in danger before they can move to safety. If you find yourself in a Flash Flood: Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never drive through flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Move to Higher Ground: Leave basements and low floors immediately if water starts rising. Avoid Electricity: Stay away from downed lines or appliances that may be in contact with water. Stay Informed: Listen to local radio, weather apps, or TV for updates. Your freshly manicured landscaping isn't the only thing in danger! By knowing ALL the potential dangers and following safety steps, residents can protect themselves, their families, and their communities when the waters rise. Flash flooding in Alabama is not just a seasonal nuisance—it’s a year-round threat to life and property. You can fin more information at https://www.weather.gov/mob/Severe_Flood

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (LEAD) is celebrated annually on January 9th to honor and recognizes the bravery, hard work, and sacrifices of nearly one million U.S. law enforcement officer aiming to foster public support, understanding of their challenges, and appreciation for their vital role in protecting communities, with ways to participate including wearing blue, writing thank-you notes, or bringing treats to local departments.