Due to the threat of Tropical Storm Isaac’s expected landfall this week along the Gulf Coast, Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley declared a statewide state of emergency and issued mandatory evacuation orders today.

“I am urging everyone to take precautions now, monitor weather warnings, and be prepared for whatever Isaac may bring,” Bentley said in a press release. “By declaring this state of emergency, I am mobilizing the resources our communities need as the storm approaches.”

Additionally, Bentley also is ordering a mandatory evacuation beginning at 8 a.m. tomorrow for Zones 1 and 2 in Mobile and Baldwin Counties.