Schools to dismiss early, cancel after-school activities

Hoover and Shelby County school officials have canceled all after-school activities this afternoon and tonight due to the threat of severe weather. Shelby County Schools will also dismiss early, at 12:30 p.m. Hoover City Schools will dismiss elementary and intermediate schools at noon, and middle and high schools will dismiss at 12:30 p.m.

This includes athletic practices and games and the after-school care program, Hoover school officials said. Shelby County After School Care Programs are also canceled.

The National Weather Service says there is an enhanced risk of strong tornadoes, hail the size of tennis balls and damaging winds up to 70 mph for central Alabama between 2 p.m. and 2 a.m. For Jefferson and Shelby counties, the enhanced risk should end by midnight, the weather service said.

Hoover school officials said they will continue to monitor the weather throughout the day and communicate any other decisions as warranted.

The City of Chelsea has designated the Chelsea Community Center as a community storm shelter. It will be open until 10 p.m., according to the city's Facebook page.