HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Governor Ivey has issued a state of emergency for 28 counties ahead of the anticipated severe weather. The state of emergency went into effect March 25, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time.
Counties in the State of Emergency include: Bibb, Blount, Choctaw, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Fayette, Franklin, Greene, Hale, Jackson, Jefferson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marengo, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Perry, Pickens, Shelby, Sumter, Tuscaloosa, Walker and Winston counties.
“Once again, Alabama finds herself facing the threat of severe weather. I urge all Alabamians to closely monitor the weather system as it continues to impact portions of our state, especially if you are in the line of the highest risk storms. We will continue following this system and stand ready to provide any assistance we are able, should the need arise.”
Governor Ivey also directed the Alabama National Guard to be prepared to respond to severe weather emergencies.
See the complete State of Emergency Proclamation here.
Some Alabama National Guard Mobile COVID vaccine clinics are rescheduling due to the weather threat:
March 27: Hale County (first dose)
Boys and Girls Club (Old National Guard Armory): 515 Greene Street, Greensboro, AL 36744
Second Dose: April 15, 2021
Along with the threat of damaging winds and tornadoes, flooding is something that should be top of mind.
More than half the deaths from flooding each year happen in cars. Just last week, rescue teams had to make several water rescues in Morgan County due to flooding.
Morgan County Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Mike Swafford said, "Us, but more importantly the rescue squad, had about six water rescues which are treacherous every time they have to do that because the person is in danger as well as the rescuers.”
Remember to turn around, don't drown. Just twelve inches of water is enough to sweep a vehicle away. If you do find yourself sinking, Young says it could be thirty minutes before rescue teams can get to you.