Georgia Emergency Management Agency

CHARLEY ENGLISH
DIRECTOR

NEWS RELEASE

Tropical Depression Heads Toward Coastal Georgia

(ATLANTA) -- As the remnants of Tropical Storm Ernesto, now downgraded to a tropical depression, continue to move northward, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) urges residents of coastal and southeastern Georgia to prepare for possible thunderstorms. Coastal residents should also be prepared for power outages caused by downed trees and power lines.

A tropical storm warning is in effect from Sebastain Inlet, Florida, northward and northeastward along the Georgia and South Carolina coasts to Cape Fear, North Carolina. 

At 2:00 p.m. today, the National Hurricane Center predicted the center of the depression should exit central Florida and move into the Atlantic Ocean late tonight. Some strengthening could occur on Thursday as the system moves over the open ocean. Outer rain bands associated with this tropical system will impact the Georgia coast from late tonight through early Thursday afternoon.

Coastal and inland residents should closely monitor weather reports and can expect heavy rains as well as thunderstorms. Those who do not have a family disaster plan should implement one, particularly if family members have special needs. Plans should also be made for pets.   

By taking simple steps to prepare, residents allow first responders to focus efforts and resources on life-saving missions and actions to help those who need it most. 

As a reminder, it is always wise to be personally prepared for any emergency, particularly weather-related ones. The following items should be included in everyone's disaster supplies kit:

• Enough water and non-perishable food per person to last for at least three days and special items for infants, the infirmed and the elderly. Don't forget to include pets in your preparations.
• First aid kit and essential medications.
• Protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags.
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
• An extra set of car keys and cash and a credit card.

Coastal and southeast Georgia residents should prepare their homes and businesses for winds of up to 35 miles per hour (mph) and wind gusts of up to 50 mph. Secure lawn furniture, grills, trash cans and other outdoor items.

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 more information on severe weather preparedness, shelters (including pet-friendly facilities), evacuation routes, and other important data, 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
www.georgia911.org