Governor Perdue Declares State of Emergency for Four Counties

ATLANTA– Today Governor Sonny Perdue issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in four counties affected by severe weather that passed through Georgia on Wednesday evening. The counties are Hancock, Jasper, Thomas and Warren. The counties requested help from the state after determining that the removal of storm debris exceeded local capabilities.

“Wednesday night’s storms caused one death and 22 injuries across the state. We extend our thoughts and prayers to the family of the deceased and to those who were hurt. In addition to the human toll, the storms left trees downed, houses damaged and roads blocked across Georgia,” said Governor Perdue. “As a result, state resources have been requested and are being made available to assist local governments in these counties with cleanup efforts. As always, we will continue to actively work with local officials to support them.”

The executive order allows state personnel and equipment to be used to assist in the response and recovery activities currently underway in these four counties and calls for the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) to activate the state’s Emergency Operations Plan.

“As with all disasters, GEMA will coordinate the deployment of state agencies, utility companies and the volunteer organizations to meet the needs of our citizens,” said GEMA Director Charley English.

Assessment teams continue to work to determine the full scope of the damage to businesses, residences and public facilities. Agencies standing by to assist local communities include GEMA - Office of Homeland Security, Georgia Department of Transportation, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia Department of Defense and the Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office.

GEMA is the lead state agency for coordination of emergency and disaster response activities. For more emergency information,visit GEMA's Web site.

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The text of the Executive order is attached.