Kirani & Trish are safe following deadly storms

ALABAMA, April 28, 2011 - Grenada's ace athlete Kirani James is fine and away from any danger following deadly storms which affected Alabama and at least five other Southern states.

The number of deaths hit 131 in Alabama alone, with loss of life in Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia and Kentucky bringing the preliminary total to about 215. However, that number is expected to rise as emergency officials search for more victims.

James, who attends the University of Alabama, confirmed via a text message, that he was fine but described the situation as “it’s that bad”. There is late word that another Grenadian Trish Bartholomew who also resides in Alabama is not affected. Like James, Bartholomew is also preparing to depart the State and join the teammates who will be representing Grenada at the Penn Relays in Philadelphia this weekend.

The University received no structural damage from the EF-5 tornado that devastated Tuscaloosa Wednesday afternoon, University spokesperson Cathy Andreen said.

“We’re concerned with all the neighborhoods that were affected that have students, faculty and staff,” Andreen said. “We’re still waiting for more information on how people have been affected by the tornado.”

Andreen said 65 students who have damage to their off-campus residences stayed at the University Recreation Center last night.

The White House announced that President Obama will visit Alabama on Friday.

Contributions from Crimson White & Campus News (UA)