Thursday afternoon, the City of Albemarle and its Mayor Ronnie Michael issued a declaration of a state of emergency starting at 5 p.m. Friday along with a curfew.

The declaration, coming after Gov. Roy Cooper and Stanly County both declared the same, stated the state of emergency comes in order to ensure the COVID-19 virus “remains controlled and that residents and visitors of the City of Albemarle remain safe and secure.”

A curfew for minors under 16 years of age who are not married and not accompanied by a parent or guardian will not be allowed in public places between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. every day.

Groups of 10 persons or more will also not be allowed to assemble on city property. Albemarle’s law enforcement officers, employees and emergency personnel will help in the implementation of the order.

The state of emergency will stay in effect until modified or rescinded.