MONTGOMERY, Ala. – (WDNews) Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday signed a proclamation issuing a state of emergency for counties across Alabama ahead of an expected winter weather system that could bring icy and hazardous conditions.
The governor said the declaration is meant to help the state prepare for potentially dangerous travel and other weather-related impacts, particularly in areas less accustomed to winter conditions.
“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.”
The original proclamation covered 19 northern Alabama counties: Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Walker and Winston.
State officials later announced that three south Alabama counties have also been added to the emergency declaration: Geneva, Houston and Montgomery.
Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman said preparations have been underway well ahead of the forecasted conditions.
“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,” Smitherman said. “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, allowing state agencies to position resources and respond quickly if conditions worsen.
“I have also directed certain state agencies to position resources so we can prepare and respond effectively,” Ivey said. “Be sure to tune in to your local meteorologists. Y’all, stay safe, stay warm and stay weather aware.”
Under Alabama law, a state of emergency typically lasts up to 60 days but may be lifted earlier by written proclamation if conditions improve.
