By Alabama Public Radio
Undated – North Alabama safety officials closed some roads and bridges Friday morning after heavy flooding. Part of Highway 31 between Warrior and Kimberly in Jefferson County was shut down, as was U-S Highway 78 in Graysville. Several bridges and roads were impassable in Sumter County. Flooding also caused traffic delays in the Mobile area. Authorities reported dozens of weather-related traffic accidents. Power outages also congested traffic on U-S Highway 98. Mobile area residents were hoping the situation would improve in time for Friday night's first Mardi Gras parade.