GEORGIA (WTXL) - Here's the latest list of evacuations being ordered in South Georgia:
THOMAS COUNTY:
According to WALB, officials in Thomas County are asking those who live in mobile homes to voluntarily evacuate to a more sturdy shelter.
COLQUITT COUNTY:
Colquitt County Emergency Management Director Russell Moody has issued a voluntary evacuation of Colquitt County. Anyone that does not feel safe in their homes is advised to evacuate and head west away from the storm.
TIFT COUNTY:
A voluntary relocation of residents who live in mobile homes in Tift County has been issued due to estimated wind speeds locally of 60 to 70 mph.
LOWNDES COUNTY:
Lowndes County has been placed under a voluntary evacuation order in the wake of Hurricane Irma.
Officials say that the order was issued this afternoon.
All of Lowndes Co. residents are encouraged to seek shelter from the storm, as the storm is presenting a high threat to life and property.
They say primary concern at this point is that citizens are accustomed to storm warnings only to have the storm lose strength before arrival. This is not expected to be the case with Hurricane Irma.
They warn expected winds may prevent public safety responders from immediately responding in the event of an emergency call.
They are asking residents not to travel until severe weather has completely left the area.
In in event of an emergency, downed power lines, or debris on a roadway, dial 911.
SHELTERING:
Those residing in mobile homes should seek more adequate shelter from this storm. No one should remain in a recreational vehicle. Additional shelters will be opened as needed and as space becomes available. Shelters are currently open at the following locations:
- CrossPointe Church, 4100 North Valdosta Road, Valdosta (no pets)
- Park Avenue United Methodist Church, 100 East Park Avenue, Valdosta (some pet space)
- The City of Valdosta will open Mathis Auditorium, 2300 North Ashley Street, as a Good Samaritan shelter on Sunday, Sept. 10, at 4 p.m., to shelter those who live in mobile homes, RV's or less-safe housing and need a place to weather the storm. Those who choose to reside at Mathis Auditorium for the duration of the storm will need to bring their own bedding, medications, non-perishable food items and any personal items they may need. No pets will be allowed at the shelter, and people are advised to make other arrangements for the care of their pets. The city requests that once people check into the facility that, for their own safety, they not leave until the strongest part of the storm subsides and until it is safe to do so.
