Emergency and Severe Weather Information
Although Huntsville is lucky to enjoy a mild climate year-round, Alabama weather can be notoriously unpredictable, especially during tornado season. Though severe weather can strike at any time, tornadoes are most common through the months of March-May. If you happen to be visiting when an emergency or severe weather occurs, we want you to have the resources you need to stay as safe as possible.
Basic Information and Emergency Numbers
During severe weather and other emergencies, most forecasts and alerts are issued by the county. The cities of Huntsville and Madison are located in Madison County, Alabama. Other communities located within Madison County include New Market, Hazel Green, Meridianville, Harvest, Owens Cross Roads, and Gurley, among others. The local area code is 256. Madison County is located within Central North Alabama and is sometimes referred to as the "Tennessee Valley."
Huntsville/Madison County is located in the Central Standard Time Zone.
Numbers You May Need
If you experience an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
- Huntsville Police Department (non-emergency): 256-722-7100
- Madison Police Department (non-emergency): 256-772-5685
- Madison County Sheriff's Department (non-emergency): 256-722-7181
- Huntsville-Madison County Emergency Management Agency: 256-427-5130
- Alabama Poison Center: 800-222-1222
Severe Weather
If you are staying at a hotel or motel, your front desk personnel should be able to direct you to the proper safe space in the event of severe weather. Keep in mind that the lowest level of a building (preferably a basement or underground space) is generally the safest option during a tornado. If you are staying at a campground, RV park, Airbnb, or another lodging provider, contact the property manager or guest services for the property's emergency plan. Review safety guidelines and recommendations for a variety of severe weather types here.
Public Storm Shelters/Saferooms in Madison County
Click for a list of public storm shelters located in Madison County.
Weather Resources and Local News Stations
Stay up to date on local weather with these resources. On social media, follow local weather updates with the hashtags #HUNwx, #valleywx, and #ALwx.
What's the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning?
A Watch is issued when conditions are present for severe weather to occur; a Warning is issued if the severe weather is confirmed by specially trained individuals or indicated on weather radar.
Local Hospitals
If you fall ill, Huntsville/Madison County is served by these hospitals. If you are experiencing an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
- Huntsville Hospital: (256) 265-1000. Address: 101 Sivley Rd SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
- Madison Hospital: (256) 265-2012. Address: 8375 Hwy 72 W, Madison, AL 35758
- Crestwood Medical Center: (256) 429-4000. Address: 1 Hospital Drive Southwest, Huntsville, AL 35801