LOWNDES Co.– Lowndes County Emergency Management Director, Ashley Tye, has released the following statement based on information provided by the National Weather Service:
“Hermine is expected to strengthen to a Category 1 Hurricane prior to making landfall late tonight in the Florida Big Bend. Because the winds extend far from the center Lowndes County can expect to begin seeing Tropical Storm Force winds approximately 40-45 mph beginning around 8PM tonight. These winds could strengthen to 55-60 mph during the hours of 11PM-8AM. The Tropical Storm force winds should exit the area by 11AM-Noon. The rainfall estimates are still calling for 7-9 inches of rain through Friday evening. While the rivers should have capacity to handle that amount of rainfall they could approach minor flood stage later next week. Staff will continue to monitor conditions until levels go back to normal. The biggest concern is flash flooding as a result of heavy rains. Citizens residing in low lying areas or those that have had issues with flooding during past rain events should make preparations now as a precaution.”
In addition to hazards posed by rainfall, citizens should closely monitor wind conditions for the duration of the event. Meteorologists have indicated a “slight risk” of tornadoes. Tornadoes related to tropical storms usually occur ahead of the main storm and can develop quickly with little to no warning. This being the case, those residing in mobile homes or structures that might otherwise be vulnerable, should seek shelter. This evening, at 7:00 p.m., Mathis City Auditorium, 2300 N. Ashley St., will open as a shelter. Citizens coming to the shelter should bring any items that might be needed through the night to include: prescription and emergency medication · medical equipment such as a wheelchair/walker, oxygen, etc. · extra clothing · pillows · blankets and sleeping bags · hygiene supplies · flashlight with extra batteries · small board games · books for entertainment · specialty snacks and juices for those with dietary restrictions · basic snacks · baby food and formula · diapers · beach chair or camp chair · identification · insurance papers · other comfort items. Do not bring alcohol or illegal drugs. Further, other safe arrangements should be made to shelter pets. For more on safe sheltering during a tornado, please visit www.ready.gov.
This evening, citizens are encouraged to secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, trampolines, bird feeders, or any other items that could be moved by strong winds. Further, in the event of localized flooding, turn around-don’t drown. Flooded roads, streets and bridges may be significantly damaged or washed away, posing a threat to motorists. Please do not attempt to travel during periods of severe weather.
In the event of downed power lines or trees/water over roads, streets, and bridges, please dial 911 to report the damage so that the area can be safely secured. Citizens should always call 911 in the event of an emergency; however, please do not call for weather/condition updates. Lowndes County Emergency Management will be posting updates on Facebook at EMA Lowndes, throughout the evening as conditions develop.
Citizens are also encouraged to sign up for CodeRed, Lowndes County’s free, emergency notification system, by visitingwww.lowndescounty.com, and clicking on the CodeRed icon. In addition, Emergency Management recommends citizens maintain a working NOAA Weather Radio to receive alerts and weather information directly from the National Weather Service. Up to date forecast information can also be found by visiting www.srh.noaa.gov/tlh.
It is important to note that while Governor Deal has declared a state of emergency, funds have not been made available for storm damage recovery. The declaration is required so that resources can be made available for response and recovery as coordinated through emergency management operations. Citizens sustaining damage to private property should photograph and otherwise document the damage and contact their insurance company, prior to clean up. Repairs should only be handled by a licensed contractor.
Lowndes County Emergency Management, the cities of Valdosta, Hahira, Lake Park, Remerton, and Dasher, will continue to coordinate services through the night via the County’s Emergency Operations Center to ensure a safe and efficient response to conditions, as Hermine moves through the area.
For more information, please contact Lowndes County Public Information Officer, Paige Dukes, 229-292-6142 or pdukes@lowndescounty.com.
