Governor Kay Ivey signed a proclamation on Thursday, issuing a state of emergency for 19 North Alabama counties ahead of the anticipated wintry and icy forecast for the state.
Counties included are Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Walker and Winston.
“In Alabama, we are no stranger to Mother Nature. However, when it comes to winter weather, we are not as familiar. So, as we head into this weekend, I am urging my fellow Alabamians, especially in the northern part of our state, to stay weather aware,” Ivey said. “Based on the current forecast, we have a few concerns, including potentially dangerous driving conditions. For those reasons, I have issued a state of emergency for potentially impacted counties.”
Alabama law specifies that a state of emergency ordinarily lasts 60 days; however, it may be terminated earlier by written proclamation.
“Our agency has prepared extensively for winter weather, with resources pre-staged for nearly every potential scenario. Our local EMAs continue to do an excellent job preparing their counties and municipalities through coordinated planning and proactive measures,” said Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman. “We are in close communication with our local and state partners and stand ready to provide support as conditions change. As impacts occur, we will assess needs in real time and respond quickly to ensure communities receive the assistance they need.”
The state of emergency is effective immediately to allow any state resources to be in place.
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