MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Wednesday issued a State of Emergency following deadly storms Tuesday night and additional severe weather Wednesday.
Alabama has experienced severe thunderstorms, hail, straight line winds, and tornadoes causing damage in 12 counties including: Colbert, Cullman, Dekalb, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Pickens, and Winston.
The storm that moved through Jackson County on Tuesday night caused three fatalities. According to an assessment from the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, 20 homes in Jackson County were destroyed and 46 others have moderate damage. AEMA officials are assessing damage around the state and mobilizing necessary resources to support those affected.
“The people of Alabama have already suffered because of this week’s severe weather and we are experiencing more today,” Governor Bentley said. “This State of Emergency will activate state agencies to assist communities in whatever way necessary, to ensure our people get the help they need. Tomorrow I will travel to affected parts of the state to survey the damage and ensure people have the resources they need following these storms.”
There are currently 10,600 homes statewide without power. State crews and power company workers are out today working to clear downed trees and power lines to get utilities restored as quickly as possible.
This week’s storms have brought some rainfall to the state but, as of Tuesday, the Alabama Forestry Commission was still battling 11 wildfires. AFC Officials will reassess the drought situation on Thursday taking into account this week’s rainfall.
This State of Emergency is effective immediately and will remain until further notice.
A link to the State of Emergency can be found here.
Media Release/Office of alabama Governor Robert Bentley
