GADSDEN– Gadsden storm preparations include readying emergency crews. The city also plans to open five facilities if the National Weather Service issues a tornado watch.
In an October 8 release, the city outlined its response plans ahead of Hurricane Isaias. Mayor Craig Ford also said city employees met Thursday morning to review their readiness.
Ford said the city begins implementing its emergency response plan when a named storm threatens Alabama or other inclement weather approaches.
“My number one concern is for the citizens,” he added. “We don’t know what the impact on Gadsden will be, but we know we’ll be ready.”
According to the release, strong winds and heavy rain are the city’s main concerns. The city also cited a National Weather Service outlook. That outlook indicated a slight risk for tornadoes and other severe weather.
City Facilities to Open if Weather Service Issues Tornado Watch
As part of its response, Gadsden identified five facilities for storm use. They will open once the National Weather Service issues a tornado watch:
- East Gadsden Community Center, 921 Wilson St.
- Carver Community Center, 1030 Tuscaloosa Ave.
- Gadsden Public Library, 254 S. College St.
- Senior Wellness Center, 2829 W. Meighan Blvd.
- Banks Park Meeting Center, 2805 S. 11th St.
However, the announcement does not say those facilities are currently open for storm use. Instead, the city’s opening plan depends on the issuance of a tornado watch.
Crews and Equipment Readied
Meanwhile, Gadsden police, firefighters, Public Works employees and other first responders are on standby.
The city has also unloaded its debris trucks so they are ready to handle storm debris. In addition, crews have fueled all vehicles. City officials also remain in close communication with Alabama Power.
Ford said the staff meeting focused on making sure employees could put emergency plans into action as needed.
For updates, residents can follow the City of Gadsden’s Facebook page or visit cityofgadsden.com.
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