According to a press release, Governor Robert Bentley on Tuesday declared a statewide State of Emergency in anticipation of severe weather moving through Alabama. The National Weather Service has forecast a significant threat of severe weather with impacts from tornadoes, damaging winds, hail, flooding and flash flooding for a wide area of the state.

“I was briefed on the severe weather by Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Art Faulkner this afternoon, and based on the evidence from the National Weather Service, it is necessary to issue this state of emergency to ensure state resources are available and can be deployed in a timely manner, if necessary,” Governor Bentley said. “Alabamians are no stranger to severe weather, and as state agencies are preparing, I encourage all Alabamians to take this threat seriously and prepare for impact of severe weather. Now is the time for citizens to ensure they have a method to receive the latest weather updates and know the locations of the nearest community safe rooms. It is proven that community safe rooms save lives.”

Gov. Bentley also ordered the State Emergency Operations Center in Clanton activated to level three. This level of activation will allow AEMA staff to monitor the impact of the severe weather as it crosses the state.

“The Alabama Emergency Management Agency will work with local EMA offices around the state to respond to any requests for assistance. With the Governor’s State of Emergency issued, Alabama is prepared for this potential severe weather outbreak. I encourage all Alabamians to stay weather aware and stay safe,” AEMA Director Art Faulkner said.

http://local15tv.com/news/local/gov-bentley-issues-state-of-emergency-due-to-imminent-severe-weather