Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced this afternoon that the voluntary evacuation order for the Gulf Coast is now mandatory. The executive proclamation, signed by the governor’s office and attested to by Secretary of State Wes Allen, applies to all non‑residents, tourists and visitors in the coastal areas of Baldwin and Mobile counties.
Areas Covered by the Order
In Baldwin County, the mandatory evacuation applies to every area south of the Intracoastal Waterway, including the popular beach communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Residents and visitors are instructed to leave these zones immediately and remain out of the area until the state of emergency is lifted or modified.
Mobile County’s mandatory evacuation covers Zone 1, which encompasses Dauphin Island and portions of Bayou La Batre. The order is issued under the Alabama Emergency Management Act of 1955, which allows the governor to suspend conflicting state statutes during a declared emergency.
Why the Evacuation Is Needed
Mandatory evacuations are rare in Alabama, but they have been used in past major Gulf hurricanes such as Ivan (2004), Katrina (2005) and Sally (2020). The decision is driven by several life‑threatening factors: forecasted storm surge exceeding five feet, unsafe conditions on barrier islands, the likelihood of road access being cut, and the need to move the large tourist population out of harm’s way.
Hurricane Isaias Forecast
Hurricane Isaias continues to intensify as it tracks eastward toward the Gulf Coast. The National Hurricane Center projects landfall tomorrow night or early Friday morning with sustained winds upward of 100 mph. Baldwin County is especially vulnerable because of its numerous rivers and streams, which could exacerbate flooding.
State and local emergency officials are coordinating shelter locations, traffic control points and resource distribution to ensure a smooth evacuation. Residents are urged to follow official routes, secure their homes, and keep emergency kits ready.
What Residents Should Do
- Pack essential items: medications, important documents, water, non‑perishable food, and a flashlight.
- Secure pets in carriers and bring them with you to designated shelters.
- Follow traffic directions from law‑enforcement and emergency management personnel.
- Stay informed through local radio, television and official social‑media channels.
The governor’s office emphasizes that the mandatory order is a protective measure designed to safeguard lives and property. Alabama’s emergency management teams will continue to monitor the storm’s progress and provide updates as conditions evolve.
Historical Context
While Alabama has not frequently issued mandatory coastal evacuations, the precedent set by past hurricanes demonstrates the seriousness with which the state treats storm‑related threats. The current action aligns with best practices for protecting families, preserving community stability, and upholding the constitutional right of citizens to safety.
Governor Ivey’s swift response reflects a commitment to responsible governance and the well‑being of Alabama’s families and faith‑based communities. As the storm approaches, officials urge calm, preparedness, and cooperation from all affected residents and visitors.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
