BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC)- Just because today's severe weather is more about straight line winds instead of a tornado, doesn't mean you should take them lightly. They can be just as dangerous because they can quickly turn objects into flying debris as well.

Here are some other tips to keep in mind when dealing with hail and straight line winds:

- Get into a sturdy building.

- Stay away from windows. Don't venture outside to look at the hail until after the storm has passed.

- Protect your head by wearing a helmet and watch for flying debris.

The bad weather is supposed to hit during the evening rush hour so if you get caught on the road, here are some tips to remember:

- Pull over into a parking lot or gas station. Try to stay away from trees or power poles that could fall on your car.

CORDOVA, AL (WBRC)- The state of Alabama is receiving more than $49 million from the federal government for long-term recovery from the April 2011 tornadoes.

Governor Robert Bentley formally accepted the funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for $49,157,000 while in Cordova on Wednesday morning. The check presentation was held at Long Memorial United Methodist Church.

The HUD funding was announced in March and will go toward various communities impacted by the April 2011 tornado outbreak.

The governor's office says those communities will be "encouraged to apply for portions of that funding to help with housing, business and infrastructure needs that have not already been met through other assistance."

Cities across the state will have to apply to receive a portion of the $49 million, which will be spread out among several areas. Applications can begin to be submitted on Thursday.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC)- Parents, guardians or
custodians in Alabama will soon face felony charges if they fail to report a
missing child immediately. It is part of ‘Caylee's Law,' which Governor Bentley
signed Monday.

The law was created after
the high profile Casey Anthony trial in Florida two years ago. Little Caylee Anthony
was not reported missing for 31 days and was later found dead.

The new law goes into
effect in August.

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