BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- Gov. Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency for Alabama, a day out from below-freezing temperatures forecasted to affect many.
On Thursday, Ivey sent out the proclamation, directing the Alabama National Guard to be ready to be called to duty in the event of the weather event, where some fear the frigid weather, which is predicted to drop into the 20s, could cause snowing and some ice formation along the roads.
“Cold temperatures have persisted in Alabama this week, and we are anticipating the potential for winter weather to impact our state, particularly our driving conditions," Ivey said in a statement. "As we all know, winter weather is challenging in a state like Alabama due to forecast uncertainties. That being said, I encourage Alabamians to make any needed preparations today, and if you are in an impacted area and do not have to be on the road, try to avoid it. Keep an eye on your local forecasts and stay weather aware.”
In addition, Ivey ordered for all state government offices and public school systems to be closed at their discretion.
The proclamation was listed for the following 37 counties:
- Bibb
- Blount
- Calhoun
- Chambers
- Cherokee
- Chilton
- Clay
- Cleburne
- Colbert
- Coosa
- Cullman
- DeKalb
- Elmore
- Etowah
- Fayette
- Franklin
- Jackson
- Jefferson
- Lamar
- Lauderdale
- Lawrence
- Lee
- Limestone
- Macon
- Madison
- Marion
- Marshall
- Morgan
- Pickens
- Randolph
- Shelby
- St. Clair
- Talladega
- Tallapoosa
- Tuscaloosa
- Walker
- Winston
The full proclamation can be read here.