Alabama National Guard activates for winter weather response

The Alabama National Guard has activated more than 350 soldiers to support the winter storm response by the Alabama Emergency Management Agency as part of Gov. Kay Ivey’s State of Emergency declaration.

Counties included in the governor’s declaration are Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Walker and Winston.

Directed by EMA, guardsmen will work in close coordination with the Alabama Department of Transportation, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and local emergency services to support public safety efforts in areas affected by the storm.

National Guard members and equipment are positioned in seven key locations to respond rapidly and operate continuously throughout the storm.

“Our utmost priority is always the same: protect the people of Alabama,” said Major General David K. Pritchett, Alabama National Guard Adjutant General. “These Soldiers are trained, equipped, ready, and eager to assist wherever they are needed.”

Guardsmen will assist state and local partners with route reconnaissance, road clearance, and movement support in communities across the northern half of the state, where hazardous travel conditions and impacts to emergency services are anticipated.

“As with all our domestic support missions, this is a well-coordinated, multi-agency operation,” said Casey Rogers, Deputy Director of External Affairs and Strategic Communication for the Alabama State Military Department. “We’re prepared to support our partners and Alabamians as we all weather this storm together.”

Soldiers assigned to the response will focus on maintaining mobility for key services, increasing situational awareness for work crews, and supporting emergency functions where ice and harsh weather limit access.

“This is what makes the National Guard unique,” said Colonel Dewana Butler, Alabama National Guard Director of Military Support. “These are the moments our Soldiers can directly serve their friends, families, and neighbors—one of our most rewarding missions.”

National Guard leaders encourage residents to monitor local forecasts, follow guidance from state and local officials, and avoid travel during hazardous conditions whenever possible.