Wind advisory for Southeast Alabama: Safety tips and precautions for Saturday

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a wind advisory for Saturday, covering the counties of Coffee, Dale, Henry, Geneva, and Houston. The advisory is in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

What Residents Should Know

The NWS warns that sustained strong winds can make driving hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, buses, and trailers. People planning to be outdoors should wear protective clothing, including hats, gloves, and face coverings.

The advisory also recommends:

• Protecting water pipes: Wrap, drain, or allow outdoor pipes to drip slowly to prevent freezing and bursting. Drain and cover in-ground sprinkler systems and above-ground pipes.

• Caring for animals: Keep pets indoors when possible. Ensure outdoor animals have dry, warm shelter, food, and unfrozen water.

• Looking out for others: Check on elderly family, friends, and neighbors frequently.

• Safe use of heaters: Use portable heaters safely and never operate generators or grills indoors.

  
  
  

• Travel precautions: Exercise caution when traveling outdoors and wear appropriate clothing for the cold.

• Protect plants: Take measures to safeguard tender plants from freezing temperatures.

Understanding Wind Alerts

The NWS categorizes wind events into three levels to indicate severity:

1. High Wind Warning – Take Action!
   Extremely strong winds are occurring. Seek shelter immediately. If driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.

2. Wind Advisory – Take Action!
   Strong winds are expected, but conditions are not severe enough to trigger a high wind warning. Secure loose objects and use caution while driving.

   
   
   

3. High Wind Watch – Be Prepared!
   Sustained, strong winds are possible. Prepare outdoor items and adjust travel plans accordingly.

How to Prepare Before Strong Winds

• Trim tree branches near homes and power lines.

• Secure gutters, shutters, and loose outdoor items.

• Identify a safe interior space, such as a basement or interior bathroom, for shelter during a wind event.

  
  
  

• Mobile home residents should plan to relocate to a sturdier building if necessary.

• Charge essential devices, including cell phones, weather radios, and power tools.

• Ensure your emergency kit contains at least three days of food and water per person.

How to Stay Safe During Strong Winds

Indoors:

• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Move to an interior room or basement during a high wind or severe thunderstorm warning.

If caught outside or driving:

• Seek shelter in a car only if a building is not nearby, and park in a safe location away from trees or power lines.

• Avoid downed power lines—they may still be live.

• Keep a safe distance from high-profile vehicles. One gust can tip trucks or trailers.

• Hold the steering wheel with both hands and reduce speed.

After the Winds Subside

• Do not approach downed power lines. Contact local authorities to report them.

• Exercise caution when handling debris that may have been blown into yards or streets.

Staying informed and prepared can help minimize the risks associated with high winds this weekend in Southeast Alabama.

SEO FAQ Section

Q: When is the wind advisory in Southeast Alabama?
A: The wind advisory is in effect on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Q: Which counties are affected by the advisory?
A: Coffee, Dale, Henry, Geneva, and Houston counties are under the advisory.

Q: How can I stay safe during high winds?
A: Seek shelter indoors, avoid downed power lines, secure outdoor items, and wear protective clothing if you must go outside.

Q: What precautions should pet owners take?
A: Keep pets indoors when possible, provide warm and dry shelter for outdoor animals, and ensure they have food and unfrozen water.

Q: How can I protect pipes and plants from freezing?
A: Wrap or drain outdoor pipes, allow them to drip slowly, cover above-ground pipes, and protect tender plants from the cold.