Reviewed by: Grace Garrison
Shop tax-free storm necessities in Alabama, Feb. 20-22
Reading time: 2 minutes

Tornado season in Alabama is just around the corner! If you want to go ahead and prepare, the statewide tax free holiday for severe weather preparedness is happening Friday, Feb. 20 to Sunday, Feb. 22.
Read on for what you need to know, including all eligible items.
2026 Severe Weather Preparedness tax holiday
During Alabama’s annual Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, no state sales or use tax is due on certain items you may purchase to deal with severe weather.
Here’s a list of *eligible items:
- Batteries
- Cell phone chargers/batteries
- Portable radio or NOAA radio
- Flashlights + lanterns
- Plastic sheeting + tarps
- Duct tape
- Plywood
- Non-electric food storage cooler
- Can opener
- Artificial ice
- First aid kit
- Smoke detector
- Gas tank
- Fire extinguisher
*Covered at $94 or less, per item
In addition, any portable generator priced at $1,564 or less will be tax exempt.
Want to make sure your county or municipality is participating? Check this list to confirm before you start shopping.
Why storm prep matters
Over the last 20 years, the state of Alabama has experienced an average of 63 tornadoes every year, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
Even though peak tornado season in Alabama is between March and May, tornadoes can occur anytime in our state.
Check out our guide to best practices during storm season. Stay safe, Alabama!
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