Georgia

Georgians bracing for Hurricane Ian as storm heads toward Florida

By WSBTV.com News Staff
By WSBTV.com News Staff

ATLANTA — Overnight and into the early morning hours, Ian strengthened and officially became a hurricane.

Hurricane Ian is now on track to hit Florida later this week. As the storm continues moving into the U.S., it could barrel down on parts of Georgia, so many are bracing for the impact.

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Governor Brian Kemp is activating the state emergency operations center on Monday to prepare for any potential impacts.

“We are leaving nothing to chance,” Kemp said in a tweet on Sunday afternoon.

Florida residents are already under a state of emergency as Hurricane Ian is expected to continue strengthening until it makes landfall.

Bottled water and wood are among some of the most sought after items on shopping lists.

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“I want to thank Director Stallings and his team, as well as our emergency management partners throughout the state who stand at the ready, ensuring Georgia is prepared for whatever this major storm system could bring,” Governor Kemp told Channel 2. “I urge my fellow Georgians to monitor this storm as it evolves and calmly take the necessary precautions to keep their families and neighbors safe, if the storm continues to intensify. Throughout the week, I will work closely with GEMA/HS, the weather service, public safety organizations, and others to ensure we leave nothing to chance.”

Those who find themselves in Ian’s eventual path can also consult this informational website provided by GEMA/HS that includes tips on storm preparedness before, during, and after a hurricane.

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Hurricane Ian: What you need to know Ian regained strength late Thursday afternoon and became a minimal Category 1 hurricane. (NCD)

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