Georgia could be on ’dirty side’ of Hurricane Isaias as the state prepares for impacts

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Georgia officials were preparing for potential impacts from Hurricane Isaias on Thursday after Gov. Brian Kemp declared a statewide state of emergency.

The state is preparing for damaging winds, heavy rain, possible tornadoes and power outages. Officials warned that the storm’s track could change, potentially shifting where the worst weather hits.

Kemp said Georgia could be on the storm’s “dirty side,” where damaging winds and spin-off tornadoes are a concern.

Kemp pointed to Hurricane Helene as a reminder that storms can bring unexpected impacts to Georgia.

“These storms can and do change, just like Helene changed,” Kemp said. “We had a Category 1 hurricane go over Augusta, Georgia, which is unprecedented.”

Hurricane Helene caused widespread damage across parts of Georgia, including downed trees and blocked roads. Its impacts underscored the importance of preparing even when a storm’s forecast remains uncertain.

The state’s emergency declaration allows officials to prepare additional resources, including the possible activation of up to 500 National Guard members if needed.

Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency officials were coordinating with state agencies and local emergency managers from the state’s Emergency Operations Center in Atlanta.

“We may have spinoff tornadoes anywhere in the state. So we also have to keep that in mind. So we’re staged for a statewide response,” GEMA/HS Director Josh Lamb said.

Officials warned that Isaias could bring more than heavy rain. Possible spin-off tornadoes, damaging winds and power outages were among the concerns as the storm approached.

State meteorologist Will Lanxton said the forecast could change, making it important for residents to stay informed and monitor weather updates.

“You could get three or four inches of rain over a two or three hour period. And that’s where the flash flooding risk comes in. You won’t have a lot of time to prepare to evacuate if you need to,” Lanxton said.

Officials urged residents to prepare for possible power outages and other storm impacts before conditions worsen.

Recommended steps include stocking food and water, charging electronic devices, checking batteries and filling vehicle gas tanks.

Residents should continue monitoring local forecasts and follow guidance from emergency management officials as the storm’s track and potential impacts become clearer.

HURRICANE ISAIAS COVERAGE

Gov. Kemp says Georgia is prepared for Hurricane Isaias

Major weekend events altered due to Hurricane Isaias’ impacts in Georgia | List

Alabama-Georgia game day changes: Tailgating, parking and pregame events revised due to Isaias

Georgia Power, tree crews prepare for widespread outages from Isaias