Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a State of Emergency for all 159 counties ahead of Tropical Storm Debby.
The storm is predicted to make landfall early Monday, August 5, affecting areas along the Florida Gulf Coast and extending into portions of the Florida Panhandle, as well as impacting south central and southeast coastal Georgia.
The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings of heavy rainfall, storm surge, and possible flooding in Georgia. With these projections, county emergency management agencies and the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency have signaled a critical need for assistance in affected counties.
The declaration authorizes the deployment of all state resources to support preparation, response, and recovery efforts across impacted areas. The Georgia Emergency Operations Plan has been activated to coordinate these efforts effectively.
In response to potential disruptions, the Governor has temporarily suspended federal regulations limiting hours of service for operators of commercial vehicles. This action aims to maintain the uninterrupted flow of goods and services essential for emergency response, including petroleum products.
Measures have been put in place to expedite the movement of utility vehicles and ensure the staffing of critical emergency response centers. State agencies are directed to collaborate closely with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to disseminate public information and coordinate emergency responses.
Additionally, special provisions have been made to issue permits for oversize vehicles necessary for relief operations, while strict penalties against price gouging on essential goods and services have been enforced to protect consumers.
The State of Emergency will remain in effect initially for five days and expire Thursday, August 8 at 11:59 p.m., with provisions for renewal if necessary. Governor Kemp’s administration will continue to provide updates and guidance through various communication channels, ensuring that residents are informed and prepared.
For more information and updates on Tropical Depression 4 and the state’s emergency response efforts, residents are encouraged to follow official announcements from the Governor’s office and local authorities.
