In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Southeastern states have been hit by recent tornadoes, causing even more havoc and heartache.

   A recent line of storms spanned 1,200 miles from Texas to the Carolinas. In Monroe, Louisiana alone, the storm has already destroyed hundreds of buildings, while also leaving at least 31 dead.

   With the presence of the coronavirus, building an emergency shelter for those left homeless by the storm poses potential dangers. Because of this, Monroe, Louisiana Mayor Jamie Mayo has asked hotels to provide rooms.

   The Salvation Army is doing their best and working with restaurants to prepare food for those in need. However, because of the pandemic, this charity’s volunteers have thinned, since many of it’s volunteers are older and/or retired, putting them more at risk for the virus.

   In an attempt to keep those affected by the storm safe, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has decided to keep shelters and community safe rooms open, despite the state’s stay-at-home order.

   “Shelters and community safe rooms should remain open and accessible to all individuals seeking refuge from this severe weather, while implementing reasonable practices and procedures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 among those seeking shelter,” Ivey said.

Sources: cnn.com