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Members of local law enforcement, emergency services, local government and community organizations gathered at Decatur County Fire and Rescue this morning for an update on what to expect from Hurricane Helene. Although still currently just a tropical storm, it is still expected to strengthen into a hurricane today, and is projected to make landfall late Thursday afternoon/evening. The storm is expected to be a Category 3 when it makes landfall, and is expected to have passed by the early AM hours Friday morning. Hurricane warnings now extend north into Georgia to the east of the Flint River, with tropical storm warnings to the west fo the Flint. The storm surge along the Florida coast is expected to be catastrophic, and may extend inland. There is a possibility for weak tornadoes to form in areas further to the east of the forecast area.

Residents should prepare for power outages, road blockages, and potential significant infrastructure damage. Canned food, drinkable water, batteries and gas for generators should be prepared by today. The Decatur County area may receive anywhere between 4 and 8 inches of rain, so for those in areas prone to flooding, precautions are recommended.

Georgia Power is monitoring the storm and preparing for potential outages. The City of Bainbridge is offering sand and a limited number of bags at both the Public Works office, as well as the Bainbridge Public Safety office; bags are limited to 10 per household, and those looking to fill their own should bring their own shovel.

Decatur County Schools and Grace Christian Academy will be closed on both Thursday and Friday.

During the meeting, a prolonged recovery period was said to be anticipated.

The Post-Searchlight will provide updates on the storm as they become available.