Governor Bentley Issues a State of Emergency for Flooding from Excessive Rains

Flooding outside of an improved levee near the downtown area of the flood-prone town of Elba, Alabama, shown Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015, has been widespread, but the new levee has kept water out of the of downtown. The Pea River is expected to crest at midnight tonight, near 43 feet. The town was underwater in 1929, which led to the constructions of levees for protection. The city flooded again in 1990 when rising waters overwhelmed levees and again in 1998 when a levee failed under pressure from flood waters. (Governor's Office, Jamie Martin)
Flooding outside of an improved levee near the downtown area of the flood-prone town of Elba, Alabama, shown Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015, has been widespread, but the new levee has kept water out of the of downtown. The Pea River is expected to crest at midnight tonight, near 43 feet. The town was underwater in 1929, which led to the constructions of levees for protection. The city flooded again in 1990 when rising waters overwhelmed levees and again in 1998 when a levee failed under pressure from flood waters. (Governor's Office, Jamie Martin)

Montgomery – Governor Robert Bentley on Thursday announced he has issued a State of Emergency for all Alabama counties for flooding as a result of the excessive rain that has fallen over the past couple of days and continues to fall.

“Many parts of Alabama have experienced excessive rainfall and flooding is a major concern,” Governor Robert Bentley said. “By issuing a State of Emergency, I have directed all state agencies to take necessary actions to be prepared to respond to the anticipated flooding across Alabama. We will actively monitor the flooding, and are prepared to respond to any requests for assistance.”

Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) personnel are in contact with the impacted counties and will be assessing the damage over the next several days. Roads and bridges in many places have washed out and are impassible. Motorists are advised to stop and turn around if they encounter flooded roads. It is dangerous to drive through flood waters.

“AEMA encourages residents to continue to monitor rains and be prepared to take action from fast rising water in flood prone areas. We will work with local officials to make sure the needs of our citizens are being met and assess the affected areas for damage,” Alabama EMA Director Art Faulkner said.

A copy of the Governor’s State of Emergency can be found here.

 

Provided by the Office of the Governor of Alabama | governor.alabama.gov