IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hurricane Helene: ECG Coordinates Crews for Current Trajectory and Potential Impact in Georgia

Atlanta, GA, September 25, 2024 – As Hurricane Helene approaches the southeastern United States, Georgia is preparing for its potential impacts by readying both citizens and infrastructure for the storm’s anticipated effects.

The National Weather Service has projected that Hurricane Helene will make landfall in Georgia within the next 48 hours, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. The Governor declared a state of emergency yesterday, mobilizing resources to protect and assist affected communities.

In preparation for the storm’s aftermath, ECG is coordinating with other states to secure line crews for power restoration once Helene passes. Mutual aid teams from various regions have been strategically positioned throughout Georgia, ready to deploy as soon as it is safe. Municipal utilities that are likely to be heavily impacted are keeping their crews on standby, poised to begin recovery operations as soon as the storm’s effects are assessed.

Sandersville is hosting crews from Calhoun, while Deep South Utility Services has teams in Adel. Fort Valley is supported by teams from Denton, TX, and Moultrie by crews from Kerrville, TX. Quitman is assisted by Indiana Municipal Electric Association, and Thomasville by Grand River Dam Authority, OK. Albany is ready with crews from Lincoln Electric Service and Grand Island, NE, while Marietta is backed by teams from Bowling Green and Owensboro, KY. Fitzgerald will be assisted by Northeast Public Power Association, MA. Additionally, Jackson is supported by crews from Rochelle, Highland, and Flora, IL. ECG is continuing to coordinate with other member utilities that are prepared to weather the storm, ensuring they are listed to receive assistance or provide it as necessary.

Walter West, President & CEO of ECG, met with the Board of Directors this morning and assured them, “ECG is taking all necessary measures to prepare for the potential aftermath of Helene. With local Georgia crews in limited supply, we are effectively leveraging our mutual aid agreement to pool resources and ensure a coordinated response. This collaboration will enable us to manage the impact of the storm efficiently and restore services promptly.”

About ECG

Electric Cities of Georgia (ECG) is a non-profit organization providing strategic and technical services to 52 public power communities with utility operations. Our services are designed to maximize utility performance while creating successful communities with economic prosperity and opportunity.

The ECG Mutual Aid Agreement connects utilities across regions, ensuring swift and efficient support during crises. By pooling resources and manpower, we can restore services faster and minimize the impact on our communities.

• Rapid Response: Enables quick deployment of crews and equipment to the affected areas, reducing downtime and accelerating recovery efforts.
• Resource Optimization: Allows for the sharing of critical resources, ensuring no utility is left to face the storm’s aftermath alone.
• Enhanced Resilience: Strengthens the overall resilience of our infrastructure by fostering collaboration and sharing best practices.

Contact Infomation:

Sabrina Milner

Director, Communications

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Sabrina Milner