The Georgia Department of Transportation is preparing for widespread effects expected from Hurricane Helene, which is forecasted to bring damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding across the state. Crews throughout Georgia are on high alert, with equipment loaded and strike teams ready to respond as the hurricane approaches the state overnight from Thursday, September 26, into Friday, September 27.
The Details: Governor Brian Kemp has issued a state of emergency that will last until October 2, 2024, in anticipation of the storm’s impacts. The storm may bring power outages, downed trees, and the possibility of tornadoes. The Georgia Department of Transportation has been coordinating with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, the National Weather Service, and local officials to ensure a swift and organized response.
Crews are prioritizing safety for the public and for workers. Operations will be monitored continuously, but cleanup and debris removal from interstates and state routes will be suspended if sustained winds exceed 40 miles per hour. Crews will resume work when conditions improve. Roads leading to hospitals and other essential services will be given the highest priority.
Motorists should expect road closures, detours, and possible flooding as the storm moves through Georgia. The department encourages drivers to check real-time updates on road conditions by using Georgia 511 services or by calling 511. In the event of power outages, drivers should treat intersections without power as four-way stops.
Why It Matters: Hurricane Helene’s potential to cause long-lasting power outages, road blockages, and hazardous driving conditions presents serious risks to residents statewide. The Georgia Department of Transportation advises the public to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during and after the storm when roads could be blocked by debris or unsafe due to flooding. Keeping the roads clear will allow department and utility crews to work quickly and safely.
Hurricane Safety Tips: As Helene approaches, residents should take some precautions.
- Stay indoors and avoid travel during the storm.
- Report flash flooding or downed trees by calling 511.
- Do not drive through standing water or around barricades.
- Do not attempt to remove debris, as live power lines may be hidden.
- Treat non-operational traffic signals as four-way stops.
What’s Next: Motorists should stay informed using Georgia 511 services for real-time updates on road conditions. Residents can monitor the National Weather Service for the latest weather developments. The Georgia Department of Transportation continues to prioritize public safety and urges all residents to exercise caution as Hurricane Helene approaches.
For more information, visit the Georgia Department of Transportation’s hurricane safety webpage or follow updates from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/ffc.
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