Governor Kemp activates state resources, deploys National Guard, and urges residents to stay off the roads

Governor Kemp declares a state of emergency for all 159 Georgia counties ahead of Hurricane Helene, mobilizing National Guard and emergency teams to respond to expected widespread damage, flooding, and power outages.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- In preparation for Hurricane Helene, Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for all 159 counties in Georgia, activating emergency response teams and deploying Georgia National Guard units to respond to the storm’s expected impacts. The State Operations Center was activated to full capacity, ensuring coordination between local, state, and federal agencies.

The National Hurricane Center has predicted heavy rainfall, high winds, flash flooding, and potential tornadoes, with the storm’s impact expected to reach all parts of Georgia. In response, 500 National Guardsmen have been authorized to assist in storm recovery efforts, with 250 already on duty.

“Helene is a massive storm, and we are expecting significant damage across the state,” said Governor Kemp. “I urge all residents to stay off the roads during and after the storm to help emergency crews clear debris and restore power.”

Coordinated Emergency Response

Georgia’s emergency management teams have been pre-deploying resources throughout the state, including debris-clearing teams, chainsaw crews, and engineer units to assist in removing obstacles from roads. The Georgia Department of Public Safety and the Department of Natural Resources have also mobilized ranger teams, strike teams, and water rescue crews.

Additionally, FEMA has granted an emergency declaration to expedite the flow of resources, while Georgia Power and other utility providers have prepared to respond to widespread power outages. Urban search and rescue teams are positioned in Gainesville and Macon to assist with recovery operations.

“The safety of Georgia’s residents is our top priority,” Kemp emphasized. “We have emergency assets ready across the state, and we will use every resource at our disposal to respond as soon as it’s safe to do so.”

Safety First: Stay Off the Roads

Governor Kemp urged residents to stay off the roads to allow emergency crews to work safely. The Georgia Forestry Commission and and other state agencies  have deployed chainsaw teams to clear debris, and the Department of Transportation has stationed crews across the state to remove obstructions.

“We expect debris and road blockages statewide,” Kemp said, “and with high winds and falling trees, it’s essential that people stay off the roads unless it’s absolutely necessary.”

In addition, 215 Florida evacuees are currently being housed in Georgia’s state parks, and state officials continue to coordinate shelter and recovery efforts.

Preparedness and Recovery

As Hurricane Helene approaches, residents are encouraged to stay informed through emergency alerts, heed evacuation orders, and prepare for extended power outages. With hurricane-force winds and significant rainfall expected, utility providers and emergency response teams are prepared for a long recovery period.

“This storm is expected to cause widespread damage, possibly exceeding the cost of Hurricane Michael,” Kemp warned. “But we are ready to respond and will continue to monitor the storm’s progress closely.”