I-85 Open; Warming Center Open; Power Restoration Ongoing
Montgomery, Ala. — City of Montgomery officials provided an evening update on storm recovery efforts, highlighting progress made through coordinated response efforts among city departments, county partners, and utility providers.
City leaders emphasized that every minute matters for residents impacted by severe weather and that crews will continue working throughout the night to restore services safely and efficiently.
Traffic and Public Safety
I-85 Northbound and Southbound are open. The Northbound off-ramp from I-85 to Eastern Boulevard is closed, and the on-ramps from Eastern Boulevard to I-85 Northbound and Southbound are closed on the South side of I-85.
Public safety officials stressed that traffic closures remain in place to protect motorists, emergency responders, and utility crews.
Public Works Progress
At the height of storm response efforts, more than 100 trees were reported blocking public rights-of-way across the city. As of this evening, that number has been reduced to approximately 12 remaining locations.
Public Works crews have focused first on clearing roadways to ensure access for residents and emergency vehicles. Debris staged along roadways will be collected in the coming days as crews return for full debris removal.
Emergency Management and Warming Center
Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency storm-related issues such as downed trees or power lines by calling 311, which will remain operational overnight.
With cold temperatures expected overnight and approximately 3,200 Alabama Power customers currently without electricity, a warming center is open at:
Crump Community Center
1751 Congressman W.L. Dickinson Drive
Open 7:00 p.m. tonight through 11:00 a.m. tomorrow
Residents without heat are encouraged to use the warming center rather than remain at home in unsafe conditions.
Power Restoration Update
Alabama Power continues restoration efforts throughout Montgomery and surrounding areas. Crews are working overnight, supported by additional resources brought in to assist with recovery. As of tonight, 3,000 customers still remain without power, which is down from 5,000.
Residents are reminded:
- Do not approach downed power lines
- Do not interfere with active work zones
- Report hazards through appropriate channels
Ongoing Updates
City officials will continue providing updates through official City of Montgomery and Emergency Management Agency communication channels, including social media, press releases, and text alerts.
The City thanks residents for their patience, cooperation, and assistance in reporting issues as recovery efforts continue.
For non-emergency storm-related concerns, call 311.
For emergencies, dial 911.
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