Gov. Deal Declares State of Emergency in Four SW GA Counties

THE STATE OF GEORGIA
EXECUTIVE ORDER BY THE GOVERNOR:

WHEREAS: On January 2 and 3, 2017, a severe weather system moved in to the State of Georgia producing severe thunderstorms, excessive rainfall and tornadoes resulting in damage in Baker, Calhoun, Mitchell and Dougherty Counties; and

WHEREAS: Preliminary assessments from County Emergency Managers in conjunction with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency detail a need for assistance in the above mentioned counties; and

WHEREAS: Due to downed trees and debris, Georgia’s network of rural roads may be rendered impassable in many areas of the impacted counties, isolating residences and farms from access to essential public services; and

WHEREAS: The assistance of the government of the State of Georgia is necessary to protect the public health, preserve the safety of the public, keep property damage to a minimum and restore the social and economic welfare of these counties; and

WHEREAS: In light of these circumstances and with the authority vested in the Governor by virtue of Article 3, Section 38-3-51, of the Georgia Emergency Management Act of 1981, as amended to issue reasonable orders, rules and regulations deemed necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare, and to bring the emergency situation under control within the acknowledged limitations of the powers of the Governor.

NOW THEREFORE, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME AS GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED: That a State of Emergency exists in the following counties: Baker, Calhoun, Mitchell and Dougherty.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: That all resources of the State of Georgia be made available to assist in the response and recovery activities currently being undertaken in the above mentioned counties, and the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency shall activate the Georgia Emergency Operations Plan.

This Executive Order shall be valid for a period of seven (7) days, beginning on January 5, 2017 and ending at 11:59 pm on January 11, 2017.