Code Red Alert from Lowndes County Emergency Management: Tropical Storm Debby

This is a Code Red Alert from Lowndes County Emergency Management. Tropical Storm Debby is expected to impact Lowndes County with significant wind and rain, which could lead to extensive damage. Debby is forecast to bring Tropical Storm force winds greater than 39 mph to Lowndes County as early as 2AM tonight. These winds are likely to cause downed trees and widespread outages. Those without adequate shelter to withstand tropical storm conditions or who depend on electricity for life-sustaining medical devices should make alternate plans now. For those unable to make alternate arrangements, a shelter of last resort will be available at Park Avenue Church, 100 E Park Ave in Valdosta, beginning at 9 PM tonight. Minimal amenities will be available as this shelter is intended only to provide safe shelter for those without other options.

In addition to the wind, rainfall totals of 10-15 inches are being forecast for Lowndes County. This will produce dangerous Flash Flooding as the heavy rains fall and could produce widespread flooding, especially near rivers and creeks, in the coming days as runoff fills the local basin. Forecasters are warning that flooding in South GA and North FL could reach historic levels, so those in areas prone to flooding should begin preparing now. Flooding will likely occur even outside of designated flood zones.

Additional information will be provided at www.lowndescounty.com and on the EMA Lowndes Facebook page. Please do not call 911 for any non-emergency requests. 911 should only be used if you need a response from the fire department, law enforcement, or emergency medical services. Call your local power company to report power outages, and you can call the Lowndes County EOC at (229) 671-2790 for other non-urgent information and requests.