Alabama issues state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Michael

Alabama governor Kay Ivey has proclaimed a State of Emergency effective immediately ahead of Hurricane Michael, which is currently brewing in the Gulf of Mexico, off the Florida Panhandle. According to weather reports, the storm is building strength and could make landfall as Cat 3 hurricane along the Gulf Coast — possibly within the next 24 hours.

Of note for trucking operations, Gov. Ivey’s proclamation relaxes hours of service requirements for drivers hauling emergency aid or equipment to affected areas (49 CFR 390.23). It also makes state resources and personnel available when and if needed and offers guidance for penalties for vendors who engage in price-gouging  for fuel or other commodities during storm relief efforts.

NOTE: A copy of Gov. Ivey’s proclamation with HOS information is available here. The proclamation is in effect for 30 days.

If your vehicles are involved with relief efforts, we recommend that drivers keep a copy of the proclamation in the cab as they make their routes.