Peach Tree Times

Governor Brian P. Kemp has directed the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to activate the State Operations Center (SOC) in anticipation of Hurricane Helene, which is forecasted to strengthen before making landfall in Florida on Thursday. The governor declared a State of Emergency for all 159 counties yesterday, allowing emergency management teams to make necessary preparations and allocate resources ahead of the storm.

"The current forecast for Hurricane Helene suggests this storm will impact every part of our state," said Governor Brian Kemp. "We are not taking anything for granted, which is why I have directed appropriate state agencies to work around the clock to ensure we're prepared for whatever is heading our way. I want to thank them for their diligence and ask that all Georgians make preparations now to keep their families and property safe."

Forecasters expect Helene to move into Georgia Thursday evening and early Friday morning, bringing tropical storm force winds and heavy rain throughout the state. This could result in spin-off tornadoes, downed trees and power lines, flooding, and other significant impacts. The SOC elevated to a full-scale activation level at 7 a.m. this morning, with GEMA/HS continuing to monitor the situation and assist local emergency management agencies.

"As we closely monitor the development of Hurricane Helene, the safety of Georgians remains our top priority. GEMA/HS is working around the clock in coordination with local, state, and federal partners to ensure that we are fully prepared for any potential impacts,” said GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings. “We’ve pre-positioned resources, enhanced communication channels and are advising residents to stay informed and take the necessary precautions. Our team is ready to respond to emergencies and assist communities as needed, and we encourage everyone to follow official guidance to stay safe."

Residents are advised not to drive or walk through standing water or bypass barricades during flooding conditions. It is also crucial to avoid downed power lines due to electric shock risks. In case of a tornado warning, individuals should seek shelter in storm cellars or basements; if these are unavailable, they should go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor without windows.

For more information on how residents can prepare for hurricanes visit https://gema.georgia.gov/hurricanes or https://gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency works with various governmental levels along with private sector partners and non-governmental organizations under the Office of the Governor's purview. Their Ready Georgia campaign aims at equipping Georgians with knowledge on disaster preparedness through custom emergency plans available at gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia.