MONTGOMERY — With an approaching winter storm bearing down on Alabama, Gov. Bob Riley has declared a state of emergency.

“We face a serious storm that will have an impact all across Alabama. Withthe accumulations of ice that are projected to begin tonight, motorists should stay off the roads during these conditions. State agencies have been preparing for this dangerous weather and have already called up extra manpower and equipment,” he said in a prepared statement.

“However, the most important thing right now is for citizens to be constantly aware of the hazards and to make sure they themselves are prepared. I urge all Alabamians to heed the weather reports and to make sure their families and friends do the same,” the statement continued.

Riley said the Alabama Department of Transportation has personnel ready throughout the state. Roadway sanding and salting equipment, dump trucks and spreaders are prepared to move. ALDOT crews will continue efforts to keep roadways passable as long as conditions allow. However, based on current forecasts, travelers should expect that many roads statewide will become impassable at some point.

The Alabama Department of Public Safety has its officers working 12-hour shifts to assist motorists who insist on traveling, despite the expected dangerous road conditions.

The ALDOT emergency call center will also be activated beginning 5 p.m. Sunday. The call center is staffed by ALDOT personnel to provide road closure and travel information. The emergency call number is 888-588-2848.