Public reminded to exercise caution as Helene recovery efforts continue

Habersham County Road Deparment employee David Carroll clears downed trees from Tom Trotter Road just off Double Springs Road at 6:45 p.m. Sunday. (Rob Moore/Habersham County)

It’s been three days since Hurricane Helene roared through Habersham County. Although the county experienced less infrastructure damage than neighbors to the north, the storm’s lingering effects are still evident.

“We still have quite a few trees with power lines either partially or completely blocking safe travel within the county,” the Habersham County Public Works Department says in a news release. “Though the storm has passed, trees and limbs are still occasionally falling.”

Because utility companies will not complete their work until after dark on Sunday, September 29, county crews still are not sure what hazards will remain come daylight on Monday, September 30.

Public Works Director Jerry Baggett cautions there are a number of limbs, wires, and low-hanging trees that still make travel hazardous for high-profile vehicles and those who are walking throughout the community. He urges the public to exercise caution.

“The worst is over, but if one more day of caution and verification saves one life, it’s worth it,” says Baggett, who recommended that county schools remain closed Monday. “Once we have a full day of daylight to evaluate and address any remaining safety issues, hopefully things can get back to normal throughout our county by Tuesday.”