City of Savannah declares state of local emergency

City of Savannah declares state of local emergency

Based on expected impacts from Tropical Storm Debby, Mayor Van R. Johnson, II has declared a state of local emergency in Savannah effective Aug. 4 at noon. 

A state of local emergency provides the City Manager the authority to execute emergency management plans and procure necessary resources to prepare for and respond to any impacts brought on by Tropical Strom Debby.

Currently, Chatham County is under a Tropical Storm Watch, Storm Surge Watch and Flood Watch. The greatest impact will be the potential for historic rainfall, coastal flooding, 2-4 feet of storm surge, rip currents, severe flash flooding, and tropical storm force winds. Residents in low-lying areas should state alert for possible flooding.

City crews have already begun preparation for the storm, clearing storm drains and providing additional maintenance to storm water systems. Should rainfall totals reach the forecasted amounts of 10-30 inches it will exceed the City system’s capacity and serious street flooding will occur. The City will implement an orderly closure of street sections in flood prone areas. More information on street closures will be provided on Monday.

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

Sandbags will be available Sunday, Aug. 4 from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. while supplies last at the following locations:

• Parking lot, EnMarket Arena, 620 Stiles Ave.
• Savannah Fire Station #8, 2824 Bee Road
• Savannah Fire Station #7, 6902 Sallie Mood Dr.
• Savannah Fire Station #15, 1751 Grove Point Rd.

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/debby.

For questions about City services or to submit a service request, residents can call 311. Service requests can also be submitted online at Savannahga.gov/311request.

Updates on road closures due to flooding will be posted at savannahga.gov/floodalert. For updates specific to the City of Savannah, residents are encouraged to follow @cityofsavannah on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter, or visit //savannahga.gov/debby