City of Albany, Dougherty County provide after the storm Helene Update

ALBANY, Ga. – Beginning today, September 27, 2024, The City and County are no longer under a curfew. The public is encouraged to use caution when driving due to any water or debris that may be on the roads.

The local State of Emergency that was activated on Thursday, September 26, will expire at 11:59 p.m. tonight.

As of this morning, the shelter at the Albany Civic Center has closed. The American Red Cross assisted 125 people who needed shelter from the storm. The City and County would like to thank the American Red Cross and all the organizations that helped make it safe for all of our residents to shelter from the storm.

In preparation of Hurricane Helene, The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) opened Wednesday afternoon and will remain available through Sunday, September 29, at 8 p.m. in the event any residents need to report damage or have storm-related questions.

City and County staff kept the community updated on downed trees and powerlines, power outages, flooded roads, and out-of-service traffic lights.

Sandbags were handed out by Albany and Dougherty County Public Works Departments between Wednesday and Thursday. As of Thursday evening, a total of 1,800 sandbags were given out. Dougherty County is still handing out sandbags until 3 p.m. today.

Crews are currently restoring power outages and removing any debris from the roadways.

The City and County will continue to monitor the Flint River water levels, especially with the water coming down from everywhere north of Albany.

As we move forward together, the City and County would like to thank the public and all agencies for their participation in keeping our community safe.

Copyright 2024 CBS 44 South Georgia. All rights reserved.