Emergency management agencies for the state, and local areas of northeast Georgia are gearing up for what could be severe weather conditions from current Tropical Storm Helene, as it makes its way inland from the Gulf of Mexico.
On Tuesday, Governor Brian Kemp issued a State of Emergency for all of Georgia with Georgia Emergency Managment (GEMA) Director James C. Stallings noting that their emergency centers are preparing to assist areas in need. Locally, other emergency managment agencies are also preparing for possible rain, flooding and wind damage.
Hall County's Emergency Management Director Zach Brackett issued a release to the public prior to Helene's impact. It states:
In White County, Director of Public Safety David Murphy adds that their department is doing everything it can to prepare for the Helena storm conditions, while having a live directory listing for its county's blocked streets and area facilities should the storm create treacherous issues.
‘‘It's always our priority for the safety and the well being of our residents,” Murphy said. “We are in close communication with the National Weather Service and other key agencies to ensure that we are fully prepared for any potential impacts from this tropical storm.”
Division Chief for White County Emergency Services Don Strength said the department is potentially expecting heavy rains and winds in the area.
“These conditions could lead to localized flooding and downed trees, which may cause road closures and power outages,” Strength said. “ We're urging residents to be prepared now. Have an emergency kit plan for sheltering in place and stay informed through our updates as the situation develops.”
