ALEA urges Alabamians to prepare for Hurricane Isaias, warns motorists of hazardous conditions
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is urging residents across the state to prepare for potential impacts from Hurricane Isaias, as forecasters warn of possible heavy rainfall, flash flooding, damaging winds, downed trees and power lines, and isolated tornadoes.
According to ALEA, the tropical system could begin affecting portions of Alabama as early as Friday, October 9. Officials are encouraging residents to remain weather aware, make preparations now and use caution as conditions develop.
Gov. Kay Ivey issued a State of Emergency on Wednesday, October 7, covering 40 Alabama counties. The declaration took effect at 4 p.m. and is scheduled to remain in effect through Wednesday, October 14. It allows state officials to take necessary precautions and coordinate resources ahead of potential storm impacts.
ALEA said it continues to monitor the developing weather situation and coordinate with state and local partners to ensure personnel and resources are ready to respond if hazardous conditions develop.
“ALEA is prepared and ready to respond to any challenges this storm may bring,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said. He encouraged residents to prepare ahead of the storm, stay informed and make safe decisions, particularly when traveling.
ALEA is advising motorists to review travel plans, monitor official weather forecasts and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
Before the storm arrives, residents should charge cellphones and portable chargers, prepare emergency supplies such as water, flashlights, batteries and medications, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Officials also recommend developing a family emergency plan, identifying a safe shelter location in the event of a tornado warning, securing loose outdoor items and checking vehicle fuel levels and condition.
During the storm, motorists should slow down on wet roads, increase following distances and remain alert for fallen trees, power lines and debris. Drivers are also urged to “Turn around, don’t drown” and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways or around barricades. Floodwater can conceal washed-out pavement and other dangerous conditions.
If a tornado warning is issued, residents should immediately seek shelter in a small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows. ALEA also warns residents never to approach or drive over downed power lines.
Caution will remain important after the storm passes, as flooding, fallen trees, debris and damaged infrastructure may continue to create hazards. Drivers should obey road closure signs and barricades and give emergency responders, utility crews and roadway maintenance personnel room to work safely.
ALEA said it will continue sharing verified public safety information as conditions develop, including significant roadway hazards, road closures, traffic incidents and potential Driver License Examining Office closures or delays caused by severe weather.
Residents can follow ALEA on social media at @ALEAProtects or visit ALEA.gov for updates. Real-time traffic and roadway conditions are available at ALGOtraffic.com.
CNAW2News.com will continue monitoring Hurricane Isaias and sharing important updates for East Alabama and West Georgia as the situation develops.
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