(Douglasville, GA)- Douglas County Government has declared a ‘State of Emergency’ in advance of impacts from Hurricane Helene. Board of Commission Chairman Dr. Romona Jackson Jones signed the emergency declaration Wednesday evening following the recommendation of Douglas County’s Emergency Management and Public Safety leadership.
Douglas County joins several other metro counties in declaring a local ‘State of Emergency’ following Governor Brian Kemp’s Statewide Emergency Declaration on Tuesday. The local declaration provides governments greater access to state and federal resources amid an emergency. It also outlines prohibitions on price gouging for critical and necessary goods and services, along with detailing 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,” said Douglas County Emergency Management Director, James Queen. “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.”
“Our primary concern is the safety of our citizens,” said Chairman Jones. “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.”
Douglas County’s Emergency Operations Center is operating on a 24/7 basis as emergency management and public safety leadership monitor the ongoing weather situation.
Signed Declaration of Local State of Emergency here.
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