Georgia Emergency Management Agency

CHARLEY ENGLISH
DIRECTOR

NEWS RELEASE

GEMA Monitors Tropical Storm Ernesto 

(ATLANTA) -- The Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) is supporting local governments as it receives forecasts this morning concerning Tropical Storm Ernesto. GEMA is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Ernesto along with the National Hurricane Center (NHC), and is coordinating with local officials.

The greatest impact to Georgia could be heavy rainfall, with predictions of up to four inches in some places. Residents in low-lying areas should stay alert for possible flooding. A risk of severe weather, including tornadoes spawned by Tropical Storm Ernesto, also exists in coastal and southeastern Georgia. Area residents should stay tuned to local radio or television for current weather information.

GEMA's preparation and response activities include:

• Conducting conference calls with local emergency management agency (EMA) directors in coastal and southeastern Georgia, GEMA field coordinators, the NHC and neighboring states for in-depth discussion of the latest forecasts and storm scenarios
• Increasing staffing in the state operations center to facilitate requests for assistance from local governments or state agencies
• Disseminating situation reports to local EMAs, GEMA staff, and state agency emergency coordinators twice daily or as needed
• Posting pertinent information on GEMA's Web site

GEMA encourages citizens to make storm preparations now. Individuals, families, and businesses should:

• Listen to local authorities for advice and protective actions 
• Prepare a disaster supply kit with food, water, a battery-operated radio and medicine to last at least 72 hours
• Don't forget to include pets in your preparations
• Create a family evacuation plan that details how and where you will evacuate and where you will meet if you are separated

The mission of GEMA is to provide a comprehensive and aggressive all-hazards approach to homeland security initiatives, mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery and special events. For information on preparedness and response activities, visit GEMA's Web site at www.gema.state.ga.us or www.georgia911.org.

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Post Office Box 18055 - Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
Phone (404) 635-7000 or toll-free in Georgia 1-800-TRY-GEMA - Fax (404)635-7205
www.gema.state.ga.us
http://www.georgia911.org/