MACON, Ga. — Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has issued a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Helene inches closer to Florida and forecasts suggest that the storm will eventually make its way into Georgia.
"Unfortunately, because this is a state-wide event, we fully anticipate that our resources are going to be scattered throughout the state," Georgia Emergency Management Agency Director Chris Stallings said at a Tuesday afternoon press conference.
Based on current forecasts, Helene is expected to make landfall on Thursday evening in Florida, the executive order says.
Ahead of the storm, Gov. Kemp's emergency declaration mobilizes resources, expands government power and loosens certain regulations so the state can better respond to any impacts from the storm.
Among the measures in the order, Kemp freed up 500 members of the Georgia National Guard, bans price gauging and orders "all resources of the State of Georgia be made available to assist in preparation, response, and recovery activities," the order says.
"In consultation with state emergency preparedness officials, I have determined that the following actions are necessary and appropriate to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of Georgia's residents and visitors," the executive order said.
While the storm is likely to be a tropical storm when it hits Georgia, the National Hurricane Center forecasts indicate that Helene could bring "damaging winds, heavy rainfall and flooding" to the state, the executive order says.
In a Tuesday afternoon press conference, GEMA Director Stallings recommends everyone prepare for the storm, including preparing kits and having multiple ways to get weather alerts.
"We encourage you to turn on weather alerts," Stallings said. "I know we all like to turn off those alerts we hate to hear during the night. Well, unfortunately, a lot of this storm will impact Georgia in the middle of the night."
All and all, Stallings' main recommendation to the public was to prepare in advance and follow any evacuation orders that could be issued.
"Our recommendation is you remain poised like we are and prepare now as we get ready to issue any orders and deploy resources when needed," Stallings said.
Kemp's emergency declaration lasts eight days and is set to expire next Wednesday on Oct. 2. However, depending on the storm's impact, the governor can extend the state of emergency declaration.
13WMAZ is closely following the course of Tropical Storm Helene. We will continue to bring you updates on-air and online here.
