Florida, Alabama and Mississippi declared a state of emergency Saturday as Subtropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of the season, made its way through the Gulf of Mexico.
Alberto is likely to bring flooding and torrential rains to both states, according to the Miami Herald and Clarion Ledger, and a tropical storm watch has been issued for Florida’s panhandle west of Gulf County.
"As we continue to monitor Subtropical Storm Alberto's northward path toward Florida, it is critically important that all Florida counties have every available resource to keep families safe and prepare for the torrential rain and severe flooding this storm will bring," said Florida Gov. Rick Scott. The state of emergency declaration is "to make sure that our state and local governments are able to coordinate with federal partners to get the resources they need."
"Do not think that only areas in the cone will be impacted," Scott added. "Everyone in our state must be prepared."
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant authorized the use of the National Guard “and other state resources … should they become necessary.”
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey declared a state of emergency effective at 6 a.m. Sunday, covering 40 counties across the southern portion of the state.
Ivey's announcement says Alabama residents should be "prepared for the potential of significant flooding."
By declaring an emergency, Ivey is directing the appropriate state agencies to exercise their authority to assist communities and entities affected by Alberto.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
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