MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Gov. Kay Ivey announced the launch of a statewide flood notification system during her State of the State address Tuesday night, calling it a critical step to improve emergency alerts and protect lives across Alabama.
The move follows devastating flooding in Texas that claimed the lives of several Alabamians, including Sarah Marsh, who was attending a summer camp.
“Alabama is no stranger to natural disasters,” Ivey said. “Protecting the safety of all Alabamians, especially our children, is our top priority, and this statewide flood notification system will ensure families receive timely alerts to prepare and stay safe.”
Ivey said the state is committing an initial $1.2 million this year to launch the system and is working with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to implement it in all 67 counties.
State Rep. David Faulkner said the system is needed to better protect residents during sudden emergencies.
“After the tragic loss of life at the children’s camp in Texas, Alabama cannot afford to go another day without stronger protections for our children at camps, and beyond, from sudden and devastating emergencies,” Faulkner said.
Ivey urged lawmakers to support long-term funding for the program, stressing the importance of fast, reliable communication during disasters.
“Every second counts in an emergency. Closing the gap between information and action can save lives,” said Jeff Smitherman, director of AEMA.
The flood notification program builds on an existing emergency alert system overseen by AEMA. The agency will continue to manage daily operations, maintenance and technical support, while legislative funding through ALEA would sustain the program in future years.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said the initiative adds another layer of protection for communities statewide, helping residents and first responders act quickly when flooding and severe weather threaten Alabama.
