SUMMERDALE, Alabama --- Because of the mandatory evacuation at 8 a.m., Summerdale Police Chief Eddie Ingram is asking all local residents to avoid Alabama 59 if at all possible.

“Please take alternate routes due to an expected high volume of traffic,” Ingram said. “If it is necessary for you to travel or cross 59, please do so at a controlled intersection such as County Road 32 or the Back Beach Express to avoid delays.”