The unusually dry weather pattern for March in Alabama is expected to end this week with severe weather, including heavy rains, high winds and the potential for tornadoes, in the forecast Wednesday for much of the state. Alabama Power is closely monitoring the severe weather threat and is prepared to move quickly to assist customers.

With severe storms in the forecast, families should review their emergency plans and be prepared for any situation. The company encourages its customers, and those who may be affected by severe weather, to stay weather aware and follow local emergency management authorities and weather updates in order to stay safe.

Alabama Power offers the following tips and information to help customers stay storm ready before, during and after severe weather:

• Sign up for Outage Alerts for real-time updates on outages and restoration by texting ‘Enroll’ to 272688 or go to AlabamaPower.com/Alerts.
• Charge cellphones, pagers and other electronic devices.
• Have several flashlights with extra batteries as well as a first-aid kit.
• Have a three-day minimum supply of water – 1 gallon per person per day, plus three days’ supply of food and drink that does not have to be refrigerated.
• Use a battery-operated weather radio to stay informed.
• Seek shelter inside a sturdy building. In the event of a tornado, the safest place is on the lowest level. Choose a small room with no windows, such as an interior closet, hallway or bathroom.

The public should stay away from any downed power lines and any downed trees that may have power lines in them.

Following a storm, Alabama Power encourages customers who may experience a power outage to follow these tips:

• Report your outage online at alabamapower.com. You can also call the automated reporting system at 1-800-888-APCO (2726).
• Turn off or unplug appliances to avoid any potential safety hazards when power is restored.
• Stay away from downed lines. Do not drive over lines or under low-hanging lines. Keep children and pets away from downed lines. Do not attempt to remove tree limbs or anything else caught in power lines. Stay clear of fallen trees or debris where downed lines may be hidden. Call Alabama Power at 1-800-888-2726 or contact local law enforcement if you see downed lines.

Learn more to help you and your family prepare before storms by visiting the Alabama Power Storm Center.