MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAFF) – Gov. Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency for 37 counties ahead of the impending winter storm.

Gov. Ivey made the announcement Thursday morning in preparation for winter weather expected Friday.

Counties subject to the state of emergency include: Bibb, Blount, Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Colbert, Coosa, Cullman, DeKalb, Elmore, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lee, Limestone, Macon, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Pickens, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tallapoosa, Tuscaloosa, Walker and Winston.

Governor Ivey released the following statement:

“Alabama continued to experience cold temperatures this week and we expect winter weather to potentially impact our state, particularly our driving conditions. As we all know, winter weather in a state like Alabama is challenging due to forecast uncertainty. With this in mind, I encourage Alabam residents to make all necessary preparations today. If you are in an affected area and do not need to be out and about, try to avoid it. Keep an eye on your local weather forecasts and stay informed.”

Officials say the state of emergency will take effect at 1 p.m. Thursday and will remain in effect for the duration of the state of emergency.

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