Walker County opened a shelter tonight at 5:30 p.m. at the Walker County Civic Center, 10052 Highway 27, in Rock Spring.

The shelter will provide those in need with a safe space to wait out the storm. There will be tables, chairs and a limited number of cots available. Those planning to use this shelter should bring necessities and creature comforts with them, such as blankets, pillows, snacks, books, medicine, etc.

Crated pets are allowed and can be checked in at the Ag Center, on the Civic Center campus.

A second shelter has been opened at the Cedar Grove Community Center, 5395 West Cove Road, in Chickamauga. Please, no pets at this location.

The latest forecast continues to call for the chance of tornadoes, but now has increased the risk of damaging winds in the 60 to 80 mph range and large hail. Severe weather is expected to begin in western Walker County around 8:00 p.m. and continue until 3:00 a.m.