The American Red Cross Alabama Region is monitoring the weather system that is moving across Alabama today and is prepared to respond if needed. Red Cross volunteers, supplies, and shelters are on standby, and will be ready to respond to whatever this system may bring.

The Red Cross urges residents to take steps now to stay safe when severe weather threatens. As with any disaster, preparation can be the difference between life and death. The Red Cross recommends individuals and families respond to severe weather in the following ways:

• Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates. Watch for signs of a storm, like darkening skies, lightning flashes or increasing wind.
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely to occur.

The Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are teaming up to promote National Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 3-9. Sponsored by FEMA and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Severe Weather Preparedness Week encourages individuals, families, businesses and communities to know about severe weather risks, take action to prepare for them, and Be a Force of Nature by encouraging others to get prepared.

Each year, many people are killed or seriously injured by tornadoes and other types of severe weather, despite advance warning. In 2012, there were more than 450 weather-related fatalities and nearly 2,600 injuries nationwide. Severe weather knows no boundaries and affects every individual in every region.

Governor Robert Bentley on Wednesday will hold a news conference in the State Capitol to discuss Alabama’s upcoming state sales tax holiday for severe weather preparedness items. The Governor will also recognize Severe Weather Awareness Week throughout the state of Alabama.

Beginning at 12:01 a.m.