Birmingham Scientist Dies + Storms In Alabama: The Week In News

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The last week of 2021 includes some pretty nasty weather in the Birmingham metro, which included some power outages and downed trees in Jefferson County.

Record-high temperatures for December were recorded throughout the state this past week, and this has caused some significant disturbances in the weather/

Also in the news, a Birmingham native and renown scientist died. Edward O. Wilson died in his Massachusetts home Sunday at the age of 92.

Here are those stories and more that made headlines this past week on Patch:

Birmingham Native, Renowned Scientist Edward O. Wilson Dies At 92

World renowned biologist Edward O. Wilson, a Birmingham native, died Sunday at his home in Massachusetts, leaving behind decades of work in natural science that earned him the title "Darwin's natural heir."

Storm Damage In Alabama: Power Outages, Trees Down

Alabama saw tornadoes touch down Wednesday night as severe thunderstorms swept through the state. Significant damage was reported in Winfield and parts of Marion County.

Miles College Names Interim Athletic Director

Miles College has a new temporary athletic director. Head basketball coach Fred Watson will assume the role of interim athletic director effective January 3.

Springville Woman Identified As Christmas Day Crash Victim

A car accident in Jefferson County Christmas Day resulted in the death of a St. Clair County woman, and injuries to five other people.

As Omicron Spreads, UAB To Keep Mask Requirement On Campus

UAB officials announced Tuesday that, due to increased local COVID-19 transmission, everyone would need to wear masks in university buildings, regardless of vaccination status.