Dear Red Cross Friend:

With little warning, thousands of people in half a dozen states saw ice and snow paralyze their communities. This winter storm left children stranded at school and motorists stranded in their cars. Some people are still stranded on roadways in the Birmingham area. The storm dumped up to 2 inches of snow and ice across Alabama.

The Alabama Red Cross has been supporting warming centers and shelters opened by Red Cross and other community organizations. Red Cross volunteers ensured shelter supplies (cots, blankets, water, snacks, etc.) were in place before the first snowflake fell or ice formed on the roadways.

Last Night…

• More than 400 people stayed in a Red Cross shelter or community shelters
• Of the opened shelters, 5 were Red Cross and 12 were partner shelters to which we provided Red Cross supplies and support
• In addition to shelters, the Alabama Red Cross supported 25 warming centers across the state

Red Cross Chapters across Alabama are in close communication with emergency management agencies and local municipalities and are prepared to respond if needed as this weather event continues. If you are seeking shelter, you can locate one online by using our shelter app or call 2-1-1 to find the location nearest to you..

The Red Cross depends on the generosity of the American people to fulfill our mission of helping alleviate human suffering in the face of all types of disasters. This is an unusual event for the state of Alabama, but the Red Cross is responding, and you can help us prepare for the next emergency response.

While the immediate danger may be over, it’s still important to ensure your safety, and the safety of your family and friends. For tips and safety information, please click here.

Stay warm and safe,

P.S. You can also download the Red Cross First Aid app for preparedness and safety tips for extreme winter weather and other natural disasters.