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

COBB COUNTY, GA — Cobb 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.

Cobb County Chairperson Lisa Cupid signed on Thursday a declaration for a state of emergency in the metro Atlanta county.

“I encourage everyone to take precautions and avoid travel during the storm,” Cupid said in a news release. “Forecasters are predicting high winds and heavy rainfall. With the amount of rain we’ve already received, flooding is likely. If you live in a flood-prone area, please assess whether it is necessary to relocate to a safer location.”

The local order is in addition to Gov. Brian Kemp's statewide emergency declaration, which covers all 159 counties. President Joe Biden has approved an emergency declaration, making available federal resources at the state and local levels.

RELATED: Helene May Keep Hurricane Status Into Macon, Metro ATL, Kemp Says

Cobb County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris ordered county offices to close at noon Thursday. County workers will remain home through Friday, county officials said.

"While county offices will close, Cobb’s essential workers—including Cobb DOT, 911, emergency management, police and fire departments—are preparing to respond to the storm," county officials said in the release.

Cobb DOT crews are moving to 12-hour shifts starting Thursday night, responding to calls of downed trees, blocked roads or flooding.

The Cobb County Emergency Management Agency will activate its Emergency Operations Center, and police and fire command will unify to coordinate the emergency response, county officials said.

"Additionally, 911 will increase its number of operators to manage the expected surge in calls and dispatch emergency responders," county officials said in the release.