City of Savannah declares local State of Emergency

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – Based on expected impacts from Hurricane Helene, Mayor Van R. Johnson, in coordination with other municipalities, has declared a state of local emergency in Savannah effective Wednesday.

The City will provide residents and businesses with sand and sandbags ahead of the forecasted rainfall. Sandbags will be limited to 10 bags per resident. Residents are asked to bring their own shovel to fill the bags.

Sandbags will be available Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Thursday, Sept. 26 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. while supplies last and weather allows in the parking lot next to the EnMarket Arena at 1100 W. Gwinnett St.

City crews have already begun preparation for the storm, clearing storm drains and catch basins and providing additional maintenance to storm water systems. The City does not anticipate any major interruptions to sanitation services at this time. Residents are encouraged to secure their refuse and recycling carts ahead of the storm.

Savannah residents and businesses are urged to review emergency plans and kits ahead of the arrival of inclement weather. Information on preparedness can be found at //savannahga.gov/stormhelene.