Essential preparedness tips from Macon-Bibb EMA, Flint Energies ahead of Tuesday’s storms

Heavy rain, damaging winds and possible tornadoes are expected to hit Middle Georgia on Tuesday, causing potential flooding and power outages.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Heavy rain, damaging winds and possible tornadoes are expected to hit Middle Georgia on Tuesday, causing potential flooding and power outages.

The Macon-Bibb Emergency Management Agency is urging people to stay indoors if they can. However, if people need to travel, they are advised to take it slow, stay safe and take extra time.

Montrae Waiters, a spokesperson with AAA, says if you are driving in heavy rain, make sure you have your headlights on, your tires have enough tread and that your windshield wipers are in working condition. People are advised to drive slowly, make sure they have a firm grip on the steering wheel and watch out for debris on the road.

Some parts of Middle Georgia could see anywhere from two to four inches of rain and up to 40 mile-per-hour wind gusts, which could cause power outages. Jennie Lacey, the Manager of Cooperative Communications at Flint Energies, is urging everyone to be prepared. She says that includes having non-perishable food items like peanut butter and powdered milk.

People are advised to have blankets and layers available and about one gallon of water per person per day of the outage. During a power outage, people are advised to be aware of the downed power lines. They can call their power company to report downed lines but should never approach them or drive over them.