Tropical Storm Debby Prompts Flood Warnings and School Closures in Chatham County

Tropical Storm Debby is expected to bring significant rainfall to Chatham County, prompting flood warnings and closures across the region. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for the area until 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, August 7. A Flood Watch is also in effect until Friday, August 9, as an additional 2-3 inches of rain is anticipated through the end of the week.

Despite the heavy rainfall expected, there are currently no plans for evacuation. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for alerts from the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) at chathamemergency.org or by texting CEMA to 77295.

Public Safety and Emergency Response

Authorities are coordinating with local departments, municipalities, and state agencies to mobilize swift-water rescue resources as needed.

Transportation

The Georgia Department of Transportation does not plan to close the Talmadge Bridge unless conditions change. Residents can report road and bridge issues via the 511 service, and up-to-date road closure information is available through the WAZE app.

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport will remain operational, but airlines may delay or cancel flights based on weather conditions. Travelers should contact their airlines for the latest updates. The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) will suspend all facilities and operations through Wednesday, August 7, with officials continuing to monitor the situation to determine the status for Thursday, August 8.

Health and Medical Services

Local authorities are working with the Chatham County Health Department and the Coastal Health District to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations during the storm.

School and Government Closures

Chatham County Schools will be closed on Wednesday, August 7, with no e-learning or staff work scheduled.

Chatham County government offices and surrounding municipalities, including Garden City administrative and city buildings, will also close on Wednesday. The courthouse will be closed, and municipal court cases will be rescheduled. City officials will assess the situation on Thursday to determine when it is safe to reopen.

Live Oak Public Libraries will be closed on Wednesday and are expected to reopen on Thursday, August 8, at 10 a.m. with normal services and programs.

Waste Management

Trash collection services will resume on Wednesday following a one-day delayed schedule. Routes originally scheduled for Tuesday will be serviced on Wednesday, Wednesday’s routes will run on Thursday, and Thursday’s routes on Friday. Any missed routes will be addressed as soon as possible.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant and continue monitoring updates from local authorities as Tropical Storm Debby progresses.

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