Montgomery, Ala. -- As of 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 4, a State of Emergency has been put into effect by Gov. Kay Ivey for several counties in Alabama in preparation for Tropical Storm Gordon. The counties that are included in this State of Emergency are: Baldwin, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe and Washington.
The National Weather Service announced that the storm will become a hurricane later in the day, bringing risks of tornados and flooding to the southern part of Alabama.
“All coastal Alabama residents need to prepare now ahead of tonight’s potential landfall near Alabama. I have directed essential state agencies to be on the ready should they be needed over the next couple of days,” said Ivey. “As with any tropical weather event, being prepared is of utmost importance. Everyone should take the necessary precautions now and stay informed of the latest weather conditions for their area. This State of Emergency will ensure that all available state resources are ready when they are needed.”
According to the press release, no matter how this storm continues to grow, there is a high risk that it will cause a lot of flash flooding in various counties due to heavy rainfall. Now is the time to prepare for all residents living in coastal counties.
With declaring this State of Emergency, Ivey has given the proper state enforcement agencies the direction to help all in the state who may be impacted by this storm.
“Gordon is a tight, fast moving tropical storm. Alabama is postured for a coastal wind and water event, but the key will be the preparation of our citizens,” Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Brian E. Hastings said. “If you live in the coastal counties, especially in surge and flood prone areas, it is imperative that you get to a safe place by early afternoon and stay there through Wednesday morning. With tropical storm force winds forecasted, we expect power outages concentrated in the coastal counties; so, make sure you have a 72-hour emergency kit ready.”
