Alabama Gov. Ivey issues state of emergency ahead predicted of winter weather

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has issued a state of emergency in anticipation of winter weather beginning early Tuesday.

The state of emergency went into effect at 3 p.m. Monday. School systems across the state have closed school Tuesday.

In declaring a state of emergency, Ivey is activating the Alabama Emergency Operations Center in Clanton and the Alabama National Guard to assist in any emergency transportation.

“This winter storm has the potential to affect a large portion of our state. Citizens in the northern half of the state should be especially mindful of the changing weather conditions,” Ivey said in a statement issued Monday afternoon. “Travel conditions could be negatively impacted Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Please avoid travel if possible and be very careful if you do have to get out on the roadways.”