Governor Brian P. Kemp instructed Director Chris Stallings and the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) staff to activate the State Operations Center (SOC) over the weekend to monitor and prepare for any impact caused by Tropical Storm Debby. Partners from all relevant state response agencies are closely monitoring the storm as it moves across Georgia today and tomorrow.

“Working closely with state agencies, local leaders and emergency response teams, Georgia is preparing for whatever Tropical Storm Debby may bring and its aftermath,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As the week progresses, we will continue monitoring the storm’s path and impact to meet the needs of Georgians affected by this major storm system. I want to thank Director Stallings, his team, and all response agency personnel who are working around the clock to help keep their fellow Georgians safe during this weather event.”

Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Florida this morning and is now a strong tropical storm over South-Central Georgia. Bands of heavy rainfall and gusty winds will further expand over southeastern Georgia today. Forecasts project 10 to 15 inches of rainfall accumulation, gusty winds of 40-50 mph, and possible tornadoes in South-Central and Southeast Georgia this afternoon, this evening, and into tomorrow. Should Tropical Storm Debby slow further and stall off the Georgia coast, it could create a life-threatening flooding event in Southeast Georgia this week. Forecast rainfall totals in Southeast Georgia, particularly within 50 miles of Savannah, are 12 to 18 inches, with higher totals possible. Coastal inundation from 2-4 feet of storm surge will also be possible during high tide cycles tonight, tomorrow, and Wednesday. Working with Georgia Power and EMCs, the state is preparing for potential power outages across South-Central and Southeast Georgia over the next few days, as well.

“The main concern for our south-central and southeastern counties is flooding. Several communities in that region have never experienced the amount of rainfall Tropical Storm Debby will bring,” said GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings. “We encourage all residents and visitors in those areas to follow the instructions of local officials. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.”

Governor Kemp and GEMA/HS are closely monitoring the status and path of Tropical Storm Debby and will provide updates as the system progresses. Georgians in the path of Debby should take appropriate action based on their location. Residents who are in vulnerable housing situations, including those in low-lying areas or at-risk floodplains, should consider relocating temporarily to higher ground. All of South Georgia should pay close attention to guidance from trusted sources and review emergency plans with their families. Residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans and supply their ready kits with a a minimum of three day supply of food and water for each family member. Visit https://gema.georgia.gov/floods-and-flash-floods for more information on how to be prepared.

For a full list of actions the governor and state agencies have already taken to prepare for Tropical Storm Debby’s impact, see below.