Isaias Prompts Major Game Day Changes At UA Ahead Of Georgia Game: What To Know

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama announced significant changes to Saturday's football game day operations as severe weather and high winds threaten to disrupt tailgating, parking and other pregame activities across campus.

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While UA said Friday that Saturday's game remains scheduled as planned, officials said no outdoor activities or tailgating will be permitted on campus before noon, with additional delays possible depending on weather conditions.

The changes come as Hurricane Isaias approaches the Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm, bringing the threat of heavy rainfall, strong winds and severe weather to west Alabama.

University officials said the restrictions are intended to protect fans and prevent damage from potentially dangerous weather conditions.

"Fans and visitors should stay alert of weather developments to make responsible decisions on travel and shelter during severe weather," the university said in its announcement.

Tailgating Restrictions

Under the revised schedule, tailgating will not be permitted anywhere on campus before noon Saturday.

Even after noon, UA said only uncovered tailgating will be allowed.

The university also announced that no tailgating supplies may be dropped off or set up Friday, going on to say that any supplies placed on campus before noon Saturday will be removed and discarded.

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UA then said corporate tailgating vendors, including Gameday Done Right, will not set up on the Quad because of anticipated high winds Friday night.

Fans may be allowed onto the Quad and other gathering areas after noon Saturday, but only after university officials inspect those locations and determine they are safe.

Electrical and power services on the Quad will also remain unavailable until conditions are deemed safe.

Parking And Transportation Delayed

Campus parking lots and shuttle services are not expected to open until noon Saturday.

UA said fans attempting to park on campus before that time will be turned away, while parking pass holders who purchased spaces through Clutch! will receive direct updates if conditions change.

Shuttle buses are expected to begin operating when parking lots open, although sustained high winds could result in additional delays.

Fans using off-campus parking are encouraged to contact individual operators for information about possible schedule changes.

Pregame Activities Canceled

Several traditional Alabama gameday activities have also been canceled or modified.

UA said Friday that all activities on and around the Quad have been canceled, along with Champions Lane activities.

The Elephant Stomp is not currently planned, while the Walk of Champions is still expected to take place approximately two hours before kickoff.

Additionally, the university canceled Friday night's public announcement celebrating the conclusion of its Rising Tide 2.0 capital campaign, which had been scheduled for 8 p.m. at Gorgas Library.

College GameDay Moving Indoors

As Patch previously reported, ESPN's College GameDay will still broadcast from Tuscaloosa on Saturday, but the popular pregame show has been moved indoors to Coleman Coliseum.

Officials said fans can begin lining up outside the arena at 5:15 a.m., with the north and east doors opening at 5:30 a.m.

Overnight camping and queuing outside the coliseum will not be permitted because of the weather threat.

Only clear bags will be allowed inside, and all bags will be inspected upon entry.

The show's traditional field goal kicking segment will also take place inside Coleman Coliseum.

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