Gov. Kay Ivey urges Alabamians to be prepared for natural disasters
On Tuesday, Governor Kay Ivey urged all Alabamians to have a plan for when disaster strikes. September is “National Preparedness Month.” “Alabama is no stranger to the unpredictable and sometimes harmful effects of Mother Nature,” said Gov. Ivey. “While we cannot stop a hurricane, tornado or flash flood, we can take steps to lessen their impact on our lives and better protect ourselves and our loved ones. “National Preparedness Month is a good time to focus on making your personal plan to be ready in the event of a disaster, including having access to timely information, the ability to communicate with family and loved ones, and also have a Go-Kit with all the essentials you need if you are cut off from basic services,” Ivey said. “I encourage everyone to begin their planning well before an emergency strikes.” Jeff Smitherman is the Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director. “National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to bring awareness on taking action in making a plan by updating and gathering what you need to keep your family safe during a disaster and creating a more resilient community,” said Director Smitherman. “With the leadership and support of Governor Ivey, Alabama held its first inaugural Resilience Council meeting last week. The council is a platform for local, state, federal, and private partners to discuss ways to better prepare Alabama’s communities to withstand events that result in harmful impacts to its citizens.” The Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommend every home have a basic emergency Go-Kit including the following: · Water and non-perishable food to last for several days · Cell phone with weather/news apps as well as extra cell phone battery or charger · Battery-powered or hand-crank radio capable of receiving NOAA Weather Radio alerts as well as local news broadcasts · Flashlight with extra batteries · A first aid kit · Prescription medications and glasses · Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person Equally important, Alabamians should develop and coordinate contingency plans with family and close-by friends if there is a need to evacuate and seek shelter. “While any time before a disaster is a good time to make plans,” Governor Ivey added, “I recommend all Alabamians prepare for emergencies now to reduce the harm they and their families could face down the road. Plan to be ready!” The Governor has created the Alabama Resiliency Council to make sure that state and local governments are ready for when disaster strikes. “Today, I kicked off the inaugural meeting of the Alabama Resilience Council,” Gov. Ivey said on Twitter. “I established this council to help us better prepare for when disaster strikes so we can preserve lives, protect jobs, and ensure our state’s future remains bright.” The Alabama Resilience Council was created by Gov. Ivey when she signed Executive Order 736. This action is a key part of the Ivey Administration’s effort to make Alabama the most resilient state in the nation by protecting the lives, property, and economic well-being of Alabamians against possible hazards, both natural and man-made. For additional information on planning for emergencies, visit www.ready.gov and https://ema.alabama.gov. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama Resiliency Council meets for first time
On Wednesday, the Alabama Resiliency Council met for the first time. The Council was joined at its inaugural meeting by Governor Kay Ivey. “Today, I kicked off the inaugural meeting of the Alabama Resilience Council,” Gov. Ivey said on Twitter. “I established this council to help us better prepare for when disaster strikes so we can preserve lives, protect jobs, and ensure our state’s future remains bright.” As the Council met, our neighbors to the west in Louisiana are fighting wildfires due to a historic drought, and Hurricane Idalia is wreaking havoc on our neighbors to our east, Florida and Georgia. According to the Council’s website, in the last 40 years, more than 1,100 Alabamians have died in disasters. In the last 20 years, Alabama has spent at least half a billion dollars simply to match FEMA funds, and in the last 20 years, Alabamians themselves have spent tens of billions on property damages and losses. Alabama has led the nation in tornado deaths since 1948, when we first started keeping accurate records. The Alabama Resilience Council was created by Gov. Ivey when she signed Executive Order 736. This action is a key part of the Ivey Administration’s effort to make Alabama the most resilient state in the nation by protecting the lives, property, and economic well-being of Alabamians against possible hazards, both natural and man-made. The Alabama Resilience Council will work with local, state, federal, and private partners to help communities build stronger, live safer, and recover quicker. The work of the Council will be aimed at better preparing Alabama’s communities to withstand events that result in harmful societal impacts. The purpose of the Council is “to provide a forum for coordinating activities of state government and for facilitating interactions between state government and the private sector to proactively address harmful impacts on Alabama communities and infrastructure before they occur.” “Protecting the well-being of our people, both physically and financially, should be a top priority shared by leaders at all levels of government,” Ivey said. “Alabama is growing like never before, and it’s imperative we take necessary steps today to preserve our historic progress for tomorrow. By proactively reimagining our approach to events with harmful effects on Alabamians before they occur, we can save lives, protect jobs, and ensure our state’s future remains bright.” “This council presents a great opportunity to bring stakeholders together to explore partnerships and create synergy in our efforts in our state,” said Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman. “It creates a platform to include key players that can significantly increase the strength and resilience of Alabama from harmful societal impacts.” “I want to thank Governor Ivey for her leadership and vision in creating this important Council,” said Alabama Commissioner of Insurance Mark Fowler. “We believe Alabama will set the national standard for preparedness and resilience. The Alabama Resilience Council will be a whole-of-government response, with the input of private industry, aimed at making that a reality.” The Alabama Resilience Council coordinates the numerous multi-disciplinary local, state, federal, and private partners in setting priorities, leveraging resources, communicating effectively, and delivering measurable results to shape a supple and vibrant future. Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman and Alabama Department of Insurance Commissioner Mark Fowler will serve as co-chairs of the Council. Permanent Members of the council include: · The Alabama Emergency Management Agency · The Alabama Department of Insurance · The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries · The Alabama Department of Commerce · The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources · The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs · The Alabama Department of Environmental Management · The Alabama Department of Public Health · The Alabama Department of Transportation · The Alabama Forestry Commission · The Alabama Geological Survey · The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency · The Alabama National Guard · The Alabama Office of Information Technology Sixteen other local, state, federal, and private partners will be invited to appoint a representative to the Council. Gov. Ivey has sent two Alabama National Guard Black Hawk helicopters and a Chinook to help the Governor of Louisiana combat the wildfires there. The Governor’s office is reportedly consulting with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on how Alabama might be of assistance to the people of Florida. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Gov. Kay Ivey establishes the Alabama Resilience Council by executive order
Governor Kay Ivey on Friday signed Executive Order 736, establishing the Alabama Resilience Council. Ivey said in a press release that this action is a key part of the Administration’s plan to make Alabama the most resilient state in the nation by protecting the lives, property, and economic well-being of Alabamians against possible hazards, both natural and man-made. “Protecting the well-being of our people, both physically and financially, should be a top priority shared by leaders at all levels of government,” said Gov. Ivey. “Alabama is growing like never before, and it’s imperative we take necessary steps today to preserve our historic progress for tomorrow. By proactively reimagining our approach to events with harmful effects on Alabamians before they occur, we can save lives, protect jobs and ensure our state’s future remains bright.” The Alabama Resilience Council will work with local, state, federal and private partners to help communities build stronger, live safer and recover quicker. The work of the Council will be aimed at better preparing Alabama’s communities to withstand events that result in harmful societal impacts. Ivey says that by including stakeholders with different perspectives from the public and private sectors, the Council aims to create a holistic approach to mitigation and resilience efforts. Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman and Alabama Department of Insurance Commissioner Mark Fowler will serve as co-chairs for the Council. “This council presents a great opportunity to bring stakeholders together to explore partnerships and create synergy in our efforts in our state,” said Smitherman. “It creates a platform to include key players that can significantly increase the strength and resilience of Alabama at all levels.” “I want to thank Governor Ivey for her leadership and vision in creating this important Council. We believe Alabama will set the national standard for preparedness and resilience,” said Commissioner Fowler. “The Alabama Resilience Council will be a whole-of-government response, with the input of private industry, aimed at making that a reality.” The heads of the following agencies will be permanent members of the Council: · The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries · The Alabama Department of Commerce · The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources · The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs · The Alabama Department of Environmental Management · The Alabama Department of Public Health · The Alabama Department of Transportation · The Alabama Forestry Commission · The Alabama Geological Survey · The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency · The Alabama National Guard · The Alabama Office of Information Technology Other local, state, federal and private partners invited to appoint a representative to the Council include: · The Alabama Association of Regional Councils · The Alabama Indian Affairs Commission · The Alabama League of Municipalities · The Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee · The Association of County Commissions of Alabama · The Business Council of Alabama · The Economic Development Administration · The Energy Institute of Alabama · The Federal Emergency Management Agency · Manufacture Alabama · The National Federation of Independent Business · The Small Business Administration · The United States Army Corps of Engineers · The United States Forest Service · The University of Alabama Center for Risk and Insurance Research · The National Weather Service Lars Powell is the director of the University of Alabama Center for Insurance Information and Research. “I am excited to be a part of this effort to maximize the physical and economic resilience of Alabama,” said Powell. “Governor Ivey has always shown the safety and security of Alabamians to be her top priority, and the creation of the Alabama Resilience Council is further evidence of that commitment. Significant opportunities exist to increase the resilience of Alabama, and I am honored by the confidence Governor Ivey shows in the Center to contribute its talents in assessing disaster risk-reduction alternatives.” Gov. Ivey has led the state since 2017. Over the last 40 years, more than 1,100 Alabamians have been killed in natural disasters. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
FEMA Deputy Administrator to visit storm ravaged areas
On Tuesday, FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks will be in Alabama to meet with state and local officials about the ongoing response and recovery efforts following the devastating tornadoes that swept across the state last week. Hooks will travel to Autauga and Dallas counties to survey the devastation caused by Thursday’s storms. President Joe Biden declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Alabama and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas of Dallas and Autauga Counties affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes on January 12, 2023. On Tuesday afternoon Congresswoman Terri Sewell will join the Deputy Administrator for a press conference. They will be joined by Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman, Selma Mayor James Perkins, Jr., Dallas County Emergency Management Director Toya Stiles-Crusoe, Autauga County Emergency Management Director Ernie Baggott, as well as local leaders and officials. “While the destruction impacting Selma and the Black Belt is widespread, our community is nothing if not strong and resilient,” Sewell said in a statement. “I’m confident that with the close coordination of federal, state, and local partners, we will be able to secure the necessary resources to build our community back better and stronger than before.” Individuals in Dallas and Autauga Counties can apply for disaster assistance with FEMA at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Federal funding also is available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Autauga and Dallas. Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has named Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama leaders respond to tragic tornados
Tornados struck Dallas, Autauga, and Elmore Counties on Thursday. Severe thunderstorms ripped across the central part of the state bringing with it severe tornado damage in Dallas and Autauga County. At this point, there are six Alabamians known to have died due to Thursday’s severe weather. According to Autauga County EMA, at least six deaths in the Old Kingston and Marbury Communities in Autauga County, and dozens of people are injured. Twelve people are reportedly hospitalized. The search for victims is ongoing. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said, “I am sad to have learned that six Alabamians were lost to the storms that ravaged across our state. My prayers are with their loved ones and communities. We are far too familiar with devastating weather, but our people are resilient. We will get through it and be stronger for it.” Ivey and her staff are working with Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) director Jeff Smitherman and his staff. Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter issued a statement regarding Thursday’s severe weather system. “The weather system that swept across our state today left behind unthinkable damage and loss of life,” Ledbetter said in a statement. “My deepest sympathies go out to those suffering in the wake of this storm. I’m continuing to reach out to our representatives in affected areas to make sure they’re safe and see where they need help. Days like today remind us how precious life is and how dangerous these storms can be.” Speaker Ledbetter and his staff have been in contact with state and local officials on the extent of Thursday’s storm damage. Speaker Ledbetter will travel to Autauga and Dallas counties on Saturday to survey the extent of Thursday’s storm damage. U.S. Senator Katie Boyd Britt also released a statement regarding the day’s severe weather across Alabama. “Our hearts break seeing multiple Alabama communities devastated by severe weather today,” said Sen. Britt. “I know that Alabamians in every corner of our state join us in praying for the families of those we’ve lost and for speedy recoveries to those who have been injured. Thank you to the first responders and linemen who are courageously serving their fellow Alabamians. My office is in contact with the Governor’s office and local officials in affected communities, and we stand ready to assist. Please continue to follow local alerts and warnings in affected areas.” U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville said on Twitter, “Our thoughts and prayers are with those impacted by today’s tornado in Selma, and to those who are still sheltering in place waiting out the storms. Thanks to the heroic first responders who are braving adverse conditions on the ground to help victims.” Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a native of Selma. A tornado struck the heart of the town of Selma, and damage is extensive there. “I am devastated and heartbroken by the tornado damage in my hometown of Selma and throughout the Black Belt,” Rep. Sewell said in a statement. “My office has already begun coordinating a federal response. I have spoken with the White House, FEMA, and the Small Business Administration as well as state and local officials including Alabama EMA about securing disaster assistance and expediting all available resources. I will be arriving in Selma tonight to survey the damage myself and assist with recovery efforts.” “I am keeping my constituents and all those affected in my prayers,” Sewell continued. “The people of the Black Belt are strong, and we will get through this together!” “I am heartbroken to hear about the damage and loss of life from today’s severe storms in Elmore and Autauga counties,” Congressman Barry Moore said. “Heather and I are praying for all the families affected. My staff is monitoring the situation and ready to help with any related federal issues – please call us if you need assistance.” “Whenever Alabamians suffer tragedy and find themselves in times of need, their neighbors and communities are quick to respond and embrace them,” said Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth. “It’s what makes our state special. My office and I are working to provide all available help to those affected by today’s tornados, and we stand ready to do whatever is necessary. I ask that you join me in lifting up those who suffered losses with our prayers.” Selma residents are under a curfew until dawn on Friday. Most streets in the city remain closed. Alabama EMA already has people on the ground in the counties affected by the severe weather and will have a more accurate survey of the damage on Friday morning. Alabama Power reports that 40,000 people are without power, but they are working on restoring power to affected communities as quickly as possible. Friday will bring much colder temperatures to the state. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey names Jeff Smitherman as Alabama EMA acting Director
On Wednesday, Gov. Kay Ivey announced she has appointed emergency management veteran and West Point alumnus Jeff Smitherman as Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) acting director. Current AEMA Director Brian Hastings is taking a new opportunity and will lead the agency through Friday, May 20. Smitherman will take the helm Saturday, May 21. “Alabama knows better than most the need to be prepared always and to be ready to respond efficiently in emergency situations, and our Emergency Management Agency plays a major role in that. I thank Director Hastings for his service to the state the last nearly five years and am now proud to appoint Jeff Smitherman to lead the agency,” stated Ivey. “Jeff is no stranger to emergency management, from his time serving our country and state in the Army to his several years at the Alabama EMA, he is more than qualified. I am confident Jeff will bring a steady hand, vast knowledge, and a servant’s attitude to this role.” Smitherman currently serves as the executive operations officer at AEMA. Prior to that, he was the director of operations. Before beginning his tenure at AEMA, Smitherman held leadership positions with the Alabama National Guard. “I am both honored and humbled to be asked by Governor Ivey to lead this agency as the acting director. This agency has a critical mission in the state, and I will strive to continue the great work that this staff performs every day for the citizens of Alabama,” said Smitherman. “The state’s emergency management system, with all its stakeholders, is recognized nationally as one of the best. I will work with the governor, her staff, and the outstanding staff at the agency to continue to uphold the highest standards for the citizens of this great state.”
