The Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant declared an Alert at 5:43 p.m. CT today.

The U.S Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) as well as state and local agencies have been notified of the declaration. Among the four categories of emergencies designated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, an Alert is the second least serious. This classification is used to describe conditions that require emergency response agencies to be in a heightened state of readiness, but pose no threat to public safety.

Trained personnel have responded and are coordinating with federal, state and local officials to inform the public and address the situation.

Alabama Power’s top priority is the safety of the public and our employees. We are committed to the safe operation of our nuclear generating facility with equipment and systems that meet strict NRC safety and design regulations.

Emergency management officials will activate sirens located throughout the plant’s 10-mile emergency planning zone if needed. Residents should stay tuned to their radio and television for the latest information. For details about Southern Nuclear’s emergency response plan, local residents can refer to their Plant Farley 2016 emergency calendar. The calendar is also available at http://www.southerncompany.com/about-us/our-business/southern-nuclear/pdfs/Emergency_Info_Farley.pdf

Plant Farley, a two-unit electric generating plant located near Dothan, Alabama, is operated by Southern Nuclear and owned by Alabama Power Company.