TROPICAL STORM BONNIE

Tropical storms, high winds, tornadoes, or hurricanes are nothing new to the wiregrass area...but being on guard for the destruction that may come with these forces of mother nature is what City Manager Jerry Corbin says the public should prepare for. The city is doing what its done many times before when a storm was expected. Getting equipment operable, and making sure crews are on stand-by if needed. Corbin says one of the most important things the public can do to prepare is keep up with the latest weather updates and news reports. Should tropical storm Bonnie turn into a hurricane and head for us, safety will be a huge concern. Even for facilities as big as local hospitals. Both Southeast Alabama Medical Center and Flower`s Hospitals say their staffs are available to plan strategies and protect patients from any possible severe weather. EMA Director, Shelby Womack says many don`t take precautionary measures seriously, thinking it won`t happen to them, however, he says it wouldn`t be the first time a hurricane hit the area. Mr. Womack remembers Hurricane Opal who hit our area in 1995 doing extensive damage way inland. Even if Bonnie doesn`t come to the wirgrass, Tropical storm Charlie is not far behind, and officials say regardless of if either of them hit, it`s best to be prepared. After all, it definitely beats the alternative. Stay tuned to WDHN News 18 for all the latest weather updates, and tune in at 5, 6, & 10pm tonight for a full detailed weather report.