In Alabama, homes are damaged or destroyed, power knocked out and roads impassable, blocked with debris. In addition to opening shelters, Red Cross damage assessment teams are fanning out in affected areas to help determine what help people will need in the coming days. Mental health workers are also being mobilized to assist people affected by the storm.

Tornadoes also affected residents of Arkansas, Tennessee, Illinois and Mississippi.

“Our first priority is making sure people have a place to go and warm food to eat,” said Charley Shimanski, senior vice president, Red Cross Disaster Services. “While we ramp up our support in Alabama, it’s important to note that Red Cross disaster teams are also busy helping people affected by the heavy snow and flooding in the Pacific Northwest and several large fires.”

Click here for more information on how the Red Cross is helping in Alabama.  For more information on what to do before, during and after a tornado, visit www.redcross.org.         

If someone would like to help people affected by disasters like these tornadoes, as well as countless crises at home and around the world, they can make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Their gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to their local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.  Or you may contact the Monroe County Chapter at 734-289-1481.