Governor Ivey declares state of emergency for 19 North Alabama counties ahead of winter weather

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January 23, 2026

(Governor Kay Ivey/Facebook, Pixabay, YHN)

Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday issued a state of emergency for 19 northern Alabama counties as winter weather and icy conditions are forecast to impact the region.

“In Alabama, we are no stranger to Mother Nature. However, when it comes to winter weather, we are not as familiar. So, as we head into this weekend, I am urging my fellow Alabamians, especially in the northern part of our state, to stay weather aware,” Ivey said.

“Based on the current forecast, we have a few concerns, including potentially dangerous driving conditions. For those reasons, I have issued a state of emergency for potentially impacted counties.”

The declaration covers Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Walker and Winston counties.

Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman said state and local agencies have prepared for potential impacts, with resources positioned across the region.

“Our agency has prepared extensively for winter weather, with resources pre-staged for nearly every potential scenario. Our local EMAs continue to do an excellent job preparing their counties and municipalities through coordinated planning and proactive measures,” Smitherman said. “We are in close communication with our local and state partners and stand ready to provide support as conditions change. As impacts occur, we will assess needs in real time and respond quickly to ensure communities receive the assistance they need.”

The proclamation is effective immediately, allowing state resources to be deployed ahead of the storm.

“I have also directed certain state agencies to position resources so we can prepare and respond effectively. Be sure to tune in to your local meteorologists. Y’all, stay safe, stay warm and stay weather aware,” Ivey said.

Under Alabama law, a state of emergency generally lasts up to 60 days unless terminated earlier by written proclamation.