Local State Of Emergency Ordered In Douglas Co. Amid Hurricane Helene

DOUGLAS COUNTY, GA — Douglas County is under a local state of emergency ahead of potentially catastrophic impacts from Hurricane Helene's arrival.

Amid predictions Helene will slam north Florida on Thursday as a Category 4 storm, the dangerous system will then creep into Georgia and is expected to impact the entire state.

Douglas County Board Commission Chairperson Dr. Romona Jackson Jones signed on Wednesday a declaration for a state of emergency in the north-central county.

“Our primary concern is the safety of our citizens,” Jones said in a news release. “We urge everyone to heed the public safety warnings, take the proper precautions and remain weather aware in the face of this dangerous weather event.”

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The local order is in addition to Gov. Brian Kemp's statewide emergency declaration, which covers all 159 counties.

The Douglas County declaration will allow state and federal resources to be more accessible to governments and regulates price gouging for critical and necessary goods and services, county officials said. The order also identifies closed and restricted areas.

“Based on the strengthening of this storm with hurricane-force winds expected in our area, it was necessary for us to take this proactive measure to safeguard life and property,” Douglas County Emergency Management Director James Queen said in the release. “We are expecting extensive flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. We also anticipate downed trees and power lines due to the heavy wind gusts. Our team is monitoring the situation around the clock and will provide the necessary updates for our citizens to make informed decisions.”