Mobile County Health Department and the Health Care Coalition urge residents to prepare for severe weather and power outages 5-28-26

May 28, 2026

Mobile County Health Department and the Health Care Coalition urge residents to prepare for severe weather and power outages

MOBILE, Ala. — As severe weather threatens our area, the Mobile County Health Care Coalition (HCC) is urging all residents to prepare now for possible power outages and to check on neighbors who may be especially vulnerable during extended loss of electricity.

More than 4,000 residents across Mobile County, according to Medicare data, are identified as needing reliable power to support critical medical devices or preserve essential medications, making advance planning and community support especially important. “In reality, the number of residents is higher when you include not just Medicaid participants but all residents,” said Latosia Turnbough, Mobile County HCC Coordinator.

“When severe weather is in the forecast, preparation can save lives,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Mobile County Health Officer and clinical advisor to Mobile County Health Care Coalition. “For many members of our community, a power outage is more than an inconvenience — it can quickly become a medical emergency. We are asking every household to make a plan, and we are asking neighbors, families, faith communities, and local organizations to look out for one another.”

Residents who depend on electrically powered medical equipment, refrigerated medications, oxygen supplies, or other life-sustaining health needs should take steps now to prepare for possible interruptions in service. Families are encouraged to review emergency plans, confirm backup power options if available, keep phones and medical equipment charged, store medications properly, and know where they can go if power is lost for an extended period.

The Mobile County Health Department also reminds the public that community awareness matters during storms and outages. Check on older adults, individuals with disabilities, people living alone, and anyone with known health concerns. A simple phone call, text message, or door-to-door check can help identify someone in need before a situation becomes critical.

Residents are encouraged to take the following steps before severe weather arrives:

• Charge phones, portable batteries, and medical devices.
• Refill prescription medications and maintain an emergency supply when possible.
• Keep a list of emergency contacts, healthcare providers, and pharmacy numbers.
• Confirm transportation options in case relocation becomes necessary.
• Identify a safe location with reliable power if electricity is lost for an extended time.
• Check on neighbors and family members who may need extra help.
• Monitor local weather alerts and follow instructions from emergency officials.

Preparedness is a shared responsibility. By planning ahead and watching out for one another, Mobile County can reduce the health risks associated with severe weather and power grid failures.