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- calendar_today October 9, 2026
Preparations Underway for Hurricane Isaias
As Hurricane Isaias approaches the Gulf Coast, Alabama Power and the American Red Cross are ramping up preparations to address potential storm impacts. The efforts focus on ensuring resources and emergency support are ready for Alabama and surrounding areas that could see severe weather as soon as Saturday.
Alabama Power Readies Crews and Resources for Possible Power Outages
Alabama Power has announced the deployment of more than 5,000 additional personnel to respond to possible power outages caused by the storm. The company is actively monitoring Hurricane Isaias, positioning crews and critical equipment to enable rapid, safe responses if electrical service is disrupted. Officials emphasize the importance of readiness as damaging winds, heavy rain, flash flooding, and isolated tornadoes could affect the region.
"Our manpower is also got 5,000 other line crews’ resources that’s coming in that’s going to assist us with all this trouble that that we can be dealing with," a company representative stated. Crews are also gathering essential emergency supplies, such as fuel for generators, food, flashlights, and chargers. Lineman Clint Tolleson advised residents to "just prepare for the worst. And after the storm, definitely just be patient." Customers can access Alabama Power’s outage map to check service status and report outages using the website, the company’s mobile app, or the dedicated phone line at 800-888-2726.
Red Cross Deploys Workers and Plans for Emergency Shelters
Nearly 40 Red Cross workers from Alabama and Mississippi are headed to the Gulf Coast, ready to support shelter and relief operations if Hurricane Isaias impacts the area. The organization is collaborating with local emergency officials and community partners to pre-identify safe shelters in anticipation of possible evacuations.
"We are preparing beforehand to set up shelters in case people need it," said Annette Rowland, spokesperson for the American Red Cross. The Red Cross is prepared to offer emergency shelters, meals, and other essential services, adapting as the storm’s track evolves. Rowland highlighted that workers are also ready to assist those who may lose access to vital medications or medical equipment during evacuation, including coordinating with health professionals to replace items like blood pressure medication or CPAP machines.
Essential Storm Preparedness Tips Shared
Both Alabama Power and the American Red Cross urge residents to prepare ahead of the storm rather than wait for severe conditions. Recommended storm preparedness actions include:
- Stocking enough water, nonperishable food, and medications for everyone in the household
- Assembling flashlights, batteries, phone chargers, first-aid kits, and important documents
- Making arrangements for pets and securing outdoor belongings
- Knowing local evacuation routes and plans in case officials issue evacuation orders
Residents are reminded to stay away from downed or hanging power lines, never attempt to remove debris from electrical equipment, and monitor official channels for the latest storm response updates. Alabama Power customers can find ongoing updates at alabamapower.com/storm.
Red Cross Offers Post-Storm Relief and Volunteer Opportunities
The American Red Cross is preparing to provide not just shelter and meals but also emotional and spiritual support to those affected by Hurricane Isaias. The organization is also calling for volunteers to assist with post-storm relief efforts and encourages donations to help affected communities recover.
As agencies across the Gulf Coast region continue to prepare, officials stress the importance of community-wide storm preparedness and resilience in facing Hurricane Isaias and its potential impacts.
Source: whnt.com.
