Kemp declares State of Emergency for all Georgia counties ahead of Hurricane Isaias

Gov. Brian Kemp issued an updated State of Emergency Thursday for all 159 counties in preparation for Hurricane Isaias. The Executive Order allows for emergency management teams to make arrangements ahead of the storm.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) will also activate the State Operations Center beginning early Friday afternoon.

“As we always do with weather events, we’re hoping for the best but preparing for the worst,” Kemp said in a news release. “I encourage all Georgians to take this storm seriously and prepare now by stocking up on food, batteries, flashlights, water, and other necessities in case of severe weather impacting communities Friday night through Saturday.”

The National Weather Service reports that the hurricane is strengthening over the Central Gulf and expected to move towards the northern Gulf Coast on Friday. North and Middle Georgia could have long durations of gusty winds up to 40 mph with heavy rains and localized flash flooding. Tornadoes are also a possibility.

GEMA Director Josh Lamb asked Georgians to prepare for the weather ahead.

“As we closely monitor this system, ensuring the safety of all Georgians is our top priority,” Lamb said in a news release. “That’s why GEMA/HS is working around the clock in coordination with local, state, and federal partners to ensure that we are fully prepared for any potential impacts. All parts of the state could see impacts from this storm, and we have the resources ready to assist them if that is the case.”

Officials warn residents to avoid driving or walking through standing water and to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued.