Disaster Response Update: March 17 - Severe Weather Day

Update: March 18, 2021

We are thankful that so far there have been no reports of serious injuries or deaths in our most recent disaster.  However, there has been widespread damage.

If you, or someone you know, did receive damage and needs help to clean up the debris, please text me at 205-907-2657 with location and contact information.  Texting will be the best way to communicate with me.  This will ensure that we can meet the needs that may be out there.

Continue to remember those affected by the Fultondale event in your prayers and with your donations.  We are looking at doing ERT training via ZOOM.  Watch for more details.

Again, thanks for who you are and what you do.

In His Grace,
Randy Burbank
Disaster Response and Recovery Coordinator for the North Alabama Annual Conference
Email: rburbank@umcna.org
 

Update: March 16, 2021

Wednesday, March 17, has a high probability of being a severe weather day.  Please remain aware throughout the day and night for Tornado Watches and Warnings which are almost certain to be released.

Here are a few suggestions if your area is impacted by this Weather System.

• Remember that if your community is impacted, you do NOT need an ERT Badge to respond.
• Check on the elderly, households with one or more people who are disabled and single-parent households in your neighborhood and church family.
• Be prepared to provide water, sports drinks, snacks and/or meals to First Responders and to storm survivors.
• If your church still has electricity, consider being a re-charging station for people with cell phones. (You can also use chargers in your vehicles. Just be sure to not let your vehicle battery drain down.)
• Listen to requests for specific supplies needed in the community.
• DO NOT COLLECT USED CLOTHES!
• If your community needs supplies, contact the Disaster Response Warehouse at (256) 341-9961. Remember they have Tornado Buckets, Cleaning Buckets and Tarps available.
• Do NOT send supplies to the Warehouse unless they are requested.
• The Disaster Response Warehouse will need people with pickup trucks to deliver supplies. If you want to volunteer, call the Warehouse first at (256) 341-9961 to coordinate.
• And most of all PRAY!

If your community and/or church are impacted by the severe weather, please contact me as soon as possible. In some cases, text messages will go through when a phone call cannot get through.

Remember, we are the hands and feet of Jesus!

In His Grace,
Randy Burbank
Disaster Response and Recovery Coordinator for the North Alabama Annual Conference
Email: rburbank@umcna.org
Cell: 205-907-2657