David Palmer

dpalmer@cullmantimes

 For Alabama and neighboring states, the end of the week could bring thunderstorms from the remains of Hurricane Harvey.

Cullman County Emergency Management Agency officials are monitoring conditions through the National Weather Service, in case the storms materialize and become severe.

“We will just have to watch. The outlook is already in place that some of the storms could be strong, with thunder and lightening and winds,” said Phyllis Little, director of Cullman County EMA.

While Houston and other areas of Texas struggle with severe flooding, Little said several agencies in Alabama have volunteered to help. But at this time they are on hold until the waters recede and other assistance is needed.

“I would be surprised if we don’t get a call at some point, even in Mississippi where there are concerns,” Little said. “Harvey is back in the ocean and has winds sustaining at 40 miles per hour or better. It’s not expected to strengthen much beyond a tropical storm, if it continues, but that could bring a lot more rain and then you could have some additional tornado threats.”

Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday night authorized Alabama Adjutant Gen. Sheryl Gordon to send two CH-47 Chinook helicopters and two UH-60M medical aircraft and crews to Texas to lend assistance.

“One of the hallmarks of the American spirit is the desire to help each other when disaster strikes,” Ivey said in a news release. “Alabama is proud to help our friends in Texas through lending our National Guard resources and offering our prayers and continued support in the days of recovery which lie ahead.”