In June, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted an above-normal forecast for the 2024 Hurricane Season.
Off the heels of Category 1 Hurricane Debby just last month, the state of Georgia is again bracing for impact as Tropical Storm Helene is expected to gain hurricane status before making landfall this week.
Despite the upgrade to a Tropical Storm only on Tuesday, experts say that the storm could reach as high as Category 3 hurricane levels in just a 48-hour span.
Forecast to reach peak intensity in the eastern Gulf on Thursday, Helene is set to hit the coast of Florida tomorrow night and become a Tropical Depression by the time it reaches the local area.
Storm surge, strong winds, and heavy rain are all possible in Middle Georgia over the next couple of days.
With rain forecast to begin late Wednesday and continue until early on Friday, the heaviest rain in Washington County is currently predicted to be on Thursday.
Yesterday, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a state of emergency for all 159 Georgia counties, which allows for the mobilization of resources, the ban of price gauging, and the loosening of certain regulations so the state can better respond to impacts from the storm.
According to the declaration, 500 members of the Georgia National Guard have been activated and readied to respond to potential tragedy.
With the prospect of inclement weather, the Washington County Farm Bureau is reminding local citizens of important tasks to complete prior to the arrival of the storm.
1.) Stay informed. There are many reliable apps on smart phones that will keep individuals up to date with weather alerts, but a battery-operated radio is also ideal to have in case of power outages.
2.) Secure outside items that could be blown around by wind. Grills, patio furniture, trash cans, trampolines, and toys should be tied down or brought indoors.
3.) Turn refrigerators and freezers to the lowest setting. This should help keep food colder and help it to last longer in case of a power outage.
4.) Unplug expensive electronics to guard against lightning and power surge.
The Washington County Farm Bureau also advises citizens to adhere to the following measures during a storm.
1.) With the potential of extreme wind damage and flooding, bring pets inside.
2.) Stay off the roads. But if one must travel, be on the lookout for flash flooding. Avoid areas that have standing water and pay attention to downed power lines and falling trees.
3.) If under a tornado watch or tornado warning, remember that a “watch” means a tornado is possible and a “warning” means that a tornado has been spotted and shelter should immediately be taken.
4.) If one is experiencing strong winds in the area, avoid windows, doors and electrical equipment.