Storm track continues pushing tropical storm weather toward NWGA

Students and educators are going to be spending the next two days hunkered down at home, but it isn’t an off day as Polk School District announced here a few minutes ago their intention to close campuses ahead of the impact of Hurricane Helene on the local area.

PSD announced on social media that the Learn from Home days will be in place for both Thursday, September 26 and Friday, September 27.

PSD officials have yet to make a decision about extracurricular activities coming up on Friday around Homecoming for Rockmart High School and the football game.

Hurricane Helene remains on track based on forecasts to make landfall on Thursday evening and move inland, losing its hurricane-force strength over south Georgia and impacting Northwest Georgia (and the whole state) as a Tropical Storm through Friday morning.

Polk County Emergency Management officials will be activating the Emergency Operations Center on midnight on Friday and will remain open until the impact of the storm is handled.

EMA Director Bobby Dockery continues to press local residents to ready themselves for the threat of tropical storm level winds, heavy rain that can cause flooding and the potential for power outages longer than the typical duration after a thunderstorm in Polk.

The area remains under a tropical storm watch, and could potentially be under a warning in the coming days. The area is also under a flood watch through Friday, also expected to be upgraded as at least four inches of rain are in the forecast between today’s stormy weather unrelated to the incoming hurricane, and Helene as it moves inland Thursday and Friday.

Be prepared

Local emergency management officials want to make sure you’re prepared for the potential for severe weather impacting the area.

The threat of tropical storm conditions means that loose items in yards can suddenly fly away and become dangerous projectiles. Please secure any items in your yard that could take off in heavy winds.

Wet conditions combined with soil that has been dry means there is potential for flash flooding in low lying areas unexpectedly during heavy rain showers. Take precautions to prevent damage to property or danger to you or your loved ones.

Do not drive through areas of roadway that are completely covered in water. It may cause your vehicle to stall.

The potential for power outages are likely for the area. Be prepared for extended time where power may not be available in your area.