The dog days of summer are descending with record-breaking intensity across Alabama, and Cullman County will be no exception to the trend.
While the high today is expected to reach at least 96 degrees, by Friday the temperature is expected to peak at 104 and carry a heat index of 105, according to the National Weather Service.
Expect Saturday to reach at least 100.
“There is no rain in sight. The low humidity and high temperatures is bringing dangerous conditions for fires and overheating, particularly for the elderly and children,” said Phyllis Little, director of Cullman County Emergency Management Agency.
Cooling centers have been announced for the following locations:
- Dodge City Town Hall basement, Thursday-Sunday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m., located at 130 Howard Circle in Dodge City.
- Cullman Civic Center in downtown Cullman. The lobby and one room is available today until 4 p.m. Drink machines are available. The center is also available Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m-5 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Gold Ridge Community Center, 5225 County Road 1645, is available Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Crane Hill VFD #1, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., located at 15123 County Rd 222 in Crane Hill.
- Cornerstone Revival Church, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at 3151 Alabama Highway 69 N, just past Cullman County Road Department.
- Hanceville City Hall, council chambers, Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday residents seeking the cooling center should enter through the police department.
“It’s very important to check on elderly neighbors. If they have just a fan for cooling, all it will do is just push hot air around in this type of weather. Little kids, too, should be monitored. They can overheat and not realize it,” Little said.
Pets should also be provided plenty of water and areas to cool during the heat wave.
Additional assistance
Operation Cool Breeze, a coordinated effort between the North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments (NARCOG), local United Way, Wal-Mart Distribution Center-Cullman and any other agency desiring to participate in the tri-county area, is offering fans for certain seniors, home-bound and disabled citizens of Cullman, Morgan and Lawrence counties.
Under this initiative, those in need of fans can be provided one at no cost. Fans and donations can be accepted by calling NARCOG at 256-355-4515. Donations for this purpose only can be designated under “Operation Cool Breeze". Please call NARCOG or United Way of Cullman (256-739-2948) for more information or to identify someone in need.
After hours (anytime) contact Kenneth Kilgo at 256-590-6369 or Cherri Blankenship at 256-303-2053, for assistance under this program.
The National Weather Service has also issued a red flag warning as dry conditions continue through the region. Residents should avoid burning items.
* David Palmer may be contacted at 256-734-2131, ext. 213, or dpalmer@cullmantimes.com.
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