Georgia Gov. Brian P. Kemp Thursday issued an updated State of Emergency for all 159 counties in preparation for Hurricane Isaias.
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The new executive order enables emergency management teams to make necessary arrangements and position needed resources ahead of the storm’s impact.
He has also directed the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to activate the State Operations Center beginning early Friday afternoon.
“As we always do with weather events, we’re hoping for the best but preparing for the worst,” Kemp said. “I encourage all Georgians to take this storm seriously and prepare now by stocking up on food, batteries, flashlights, water and other necessities in case of severe weather impacting communities Friday night through Saturday.”
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Forecasters expect Isaias to make landfall on the Gulf Coast Friday evening, with potential impact to the state continuing through Saturday. Impacts could include strong wind gusts and heavy rain throughout the state, potentially leading to spin-off tornadoes, downed trees and power lines, flooding and other effects.
“As we closely monitor this system, ensuring the safety of all Georgians is our top priority,” said GEMA/HS Director Josh Lamb. “That’s why 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. All parts of the state could see impacts from this storm, and we have the resources ready to assist them if that is the case.”
Channel 2’s Tom Regan also visited Georgia Power’s operations center in Northwest Atlanta where crews are getting prepared ahead of the arrival of the storm. Damaging winds and torrential winds could topple many trees, causing power outages.
“If needed, we will mobilize crews around the state where we are expected impact. But right now we are in the tracking and planning stages, to make sure we have equipment where needed, and personnel where needed, ”said Amanda Sowells.
Georgia Power crews were out Thursday trimming tree limbs near powerlines as a precaution.
“Especially now during hurricane season in the fall, we want to make sure those limbs are not falling directly on our powerlines, because we know that can impact our customers during storms, especially in residential neighborhoods.” said Sowells.
Georgia Power also advises customers to have an emergency kit ready, in case of an electrical outage.
“Portable batteries, canned goods, water bottles, any extra medications you may need to prepare for power outages. And you are automatically signed up for outage alerts on your phone.” said Sowell.
GEMA officials also advised people to be careful around flooded roadways and not risk driving into high water.
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