Five students injured after possible tornado tears through Dothan school, Alabama

Two suspected tornadoes were reported in Dothan City, Alabama, on Monday, March 31, 2025, injuring five children as the storm ripped the roof off Dothan Preparatory School. At least 3 000 people were left without power as storms ripped through the area, downing trees and power lines.

A suspected tornado struck Dothan, Alabama, on Monday, March 31, causing significant damage to Dothan Preparatory Academy. The storm led to the partial collapse of the school’s roof, resulting in minor injuries to five students — two were transported to a local hospital for further evaluation, while the remaining three did not require hospitalization.

More than 70 schools in Dothan and surrounding areas, including Cowarts, Ashford, and Blakely, were affected by the storms. While Dothan Preparatory Academy sustained notable damage, similar impacts on other schools in the region were not reported.​

Emergency response teams from multiple departments arrived at the academy shortly after the severe weather event struck at approximately 12:30 local time (LT) on Monday. As of 16:00 LT, at least 3 000 customers were without power in the area.

Severe damage was reported across the area, with multiple trees being uprooted and power lines being downed as strong winds flung debris around the school and surrounding areas. Some people have reported sighting two tornadoes in the region, which is yet to be confirmed.

“Utility crews are working diligently to restore service as quickly and safely as possible. Residents are urged to stay away from the affected area, as multiple roads are closed and downed power lines pose significant hazards,” according to a statement from the City government of Dothan.

“Students are safe at Dothan Prep. Injuries are being addressed by Dothan Fire. Please wait to get children due to debris in the roads. Dothan City Schools will coordinate with families to release students in an orderly manner,” Dothan Police Department stated.

“We are grateful there have not been any serious injuries reported. We are proud of our first responders and utility crews who are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our residents,” said Mark Saliba, Mayor of Dothan.

Bus services to schools were suspended earlier on Monday after the school district issued early dismissals across the region.

Feature image credit: Jessica Dawn Case