Governor Issues State Of Emergency As Severe Weather Threat Looms

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Alabama Governor Kay Ivey on Friday issued a state of emergency as a line of severe weather is expected to move through the state.

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The emergency declaration is set to go into effect at 2 p.m. will allow for the mobilization of resources and assistance to communities impacted by the storms.

The two lines of powerful storms are expected to bring heavy rain, 2-inch+ hail, strong winds and the potential for long-track tornadoes.

The storms are expected to impact the Tuscaloosa area overnight Friday and between noon and 9 p.m. on Saturday and potentially on into Sunday morning.

"Now is the time to make any preparations and have a plan, should the weather conditions become dangerous," Ivey said. "Certainly, we are no stranger to Mother Nature's wrath, but I encourage Alabamians to be vigilant beginning tonight. Stay weather aware and stay safe."

Tuscaloosa County EMA offers a free emergency notifications service — TuscALERT — that sends updates on severe weather directly to your phone, email or mobile device.

Click here to sign up for TuscALERT.

Click here for a map of storm shelters across the Tuscaloosa metro. The Tuscaloosa County EMA website also provides regular updates on when shelters open during severe weather events.

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