American Red Cross opens temporary shelter at Albany Civic Center for Hurricane Helene

ALBANY, Ga. – As Dougherty county braces for the impact of Hurricane Helene, the Red Cross is taking measures in downtown Albany for anyone in need of an evacuation.

We spoke with a Red Cross team member at the James H. Gray Albany Civic Center right before they opened the doors Thursday afternoon…

And… they’re offering space for people to ride out the hurricane in safety.

“What we’re doing is offering temporary sheltering, during the gist of the storm, and after which time we determine if we need to open a shelter for a longer period of time. And we will transition into that afterwards. But for tonight, we want citizens to be aware of the impending storm. If you’re not and we are offering respite care here,” said Tangela Campbell, Shelter Supervisor, American Red Cross.

With flash flood warnings coming from across our area, the Red Cross is making sure.

And… this shelter is for those who feel their homes may be in danger of being damaged by floodwaters.

“Be very mindful if you’ve had flooding in the past. Trust me, there’s a possibility you will have flooding on this go round. So, just be aware…” said Campbell.

They’re set to provide shelter and food as well as the major impact of the storm will hit early Friday morning.

“We will be here until at least 12:00 pm tomorrow. We will ride out the storm throughout the night. We’re not leaving. We will be here. But I do tell you, in the heat of the storm, don’t try to come out. Just stay safe, hunker down,” said Campbell.

While they wait out the brunt of Hurricane Helene, they’re planning to be here until the storm passes through, hoping for no damage.

According to the National Weather Service, the city of Albany is currently under both a flood and tornado watch.

Brian Roche reporting.

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