Gov. Kay Ivey Issues State of Emergency Ahead of Hurricane Irma

MONTGOMERY, AL - Although most forecasts show Alabama out of most of Hurricane Irma's path, Gov. Kay Ivey has issued a state of emergency ahead of the deadly storm. Ivey issued a statement saying Alabama must be prepared in the event the storm comes toward the state, and for residents to be prepared to come to the aid of its neighboring states.

"We must also be prepared to help meet the needs of our neighboring states that may face the brunt of the storm," Ivey said. "I have spoken with Governor Scott of Florida and pledged the full support of the people of Alabama. I am also remaining in contact with my emergency operations team to monitor any threat Irma may pose to our state. In that vein, I have declared a State of Emergency so that we can respond however necessary at the appropriate time."

Ivey had previously issued limited supplemental States of Emergency to address immediate needs. “We continue to closely monitor the path of Hurricane Irma.," Ivey said. "Although at this point is does not appear that Alabama will face the brunt of the storm, we will certainly be affected and we must be ready to respond, no matter what comes our way." (For more updates on this story and free news alerts for your neighborhood, sign up for your local Birmingham Patch morning newsletter.)

Jim Stefkovich, meteorologist, for the Alabama Emergency Management Agency said beginning Monday morning through Tuesday afternoon, sustained winds of 15-25 MPH will occur, with gusts approaching 40 MPH for areas near and east of I-65, and possibly as high as 55 MPH for far east AL. He said winds will decrease in both sustained speeds and gusts from south to north from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning.

(Image courtesy of the National Weather Service)