Gov. Ivey Issues State of Emergency for 19 North Alabama Counties Ahead of Winter Weather

Montgomery, Ala. (BuzzReport) — Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday signed a proclamation declaring a state of emergency for 19 northern Alabama counties in anticipation of potentially hazardous winter weather expected to impact the state.

The declaration comes as forecasters warn of icy and wintry conditions that could create dangerous travel and safety concerns, particularly in North Alabama.

“In Alabama, we are no stranger to Mother Nature. However, when it comes to winter weather, we are not as familiar,” Governor Ivey said. “As we head into this weekend, I am urging my fellow Alabamians, especially in the northern part of our state, to stay weather aware. 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 counties included in the proclamation are Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Walker, and Winston.

Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman said state and local agencies have been preparing for the potential impacts.

“Our agency has prepared extensively for winter weather, with resources pre-staged for nearly every potential scenario,” Smitherman said. “Our local EMAs continue to do an excellent job preparing their counties and municipalities through coordinated planning and proactive measures. We are in close communication with our local and state partners and stand ready to provide support as conditions change.”

The state of emergency is effective immediately, allowing state resources to be mobilized and positioned as needed.

Governor Ivey also said she has directed certain state agencies to ensure readiness ahead of the storm system and encouraged residents to monitor local weather updates.

“Be sure to tune in to your local meteorologists,” Ivey said. “Y’all, stay safe, stay warm and stay weather aware.”

Under Alabama law, a state of emergency typically remains in effect for up to 60 days, though it may be terminated earlier by written proclamation.