In anticipation of Sunday’s winter storm, Alabama Gov. Bob Riley declared a state of emergency Sunday morning.

“We face a serious storm that will have an impact all across Alabama.  With the accumulations of ice that are projected to begin tonight, motorists should stay off roads during these conditions.  State agencies have been preparing for this dangerous weather and have already called up extra manpower and equipment.  However, the most important thing right now is for citizens to be constantly aware of the hazards and to make sure they themselves are prepared.  I urge all Alabamians to heed the weather reports and to make sure their families and friends do the same,” said Governor Riley.

Governor Riley said the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has personnel ready throughout the state.  Roadway sanding and salting equipment, dump trucks and spreaders are prepared to move.

ALDOT crews will continue efforts to keep roadways passable as long as conditions allow, Riley asid.  However, based on current forecasts, travelers should expect that many roads statewide will become impassable at some point.

ALDOT and DPS are continually monitoring road and bridge conditions and are prepared to close them if it becomes necessary.  Any emergency road closures will be posted online at the ALDOT website:  www.dot.state.al.us/.

The ALDOT emergency call center will also be activated beginning 5 p.m. Sunday. The call center is staffed by ALDOT personnel to provide road closure and travel information. The emergency call number is 888-588-2848.