The emergency declaration allows state resources to aid the flood-stricken communities.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency on Friday for 23 counties severely impacted by torrential rainstorms that caused widespread flooding. The downpours, which hit Wednesday and Thursday, led to overflowing rivers, submerged roads and prompted emergency rescues in some areas. The affected regions include those still recovering from earlier weather events such as Hurricane Helene in September and flooding from Tropical Storm Debby in August.
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The emergency declaration allows state resources to aid the flood-stricken communities. In rural Evans County, more than 10 inches (25 cm) of rain fell over two days, prompting first responders to use boats for rescue operations along the Canoochee River near Claxton. The river was predicted to crest at a record 18.7 feet (5.7 meters) by Friday night, according to the National Weather Service.
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Valdosta, near the Georgia-Florida line, received over 12 inches (30 cm) of rain, resulting in significant flooding that rendered roads impassable and led to school closures. In Savannah, nearly nine inches (23 cm) of rain overwhelmed storm drains and left cars stalled on waterlogged streets. West of the city, water covered the westbound lanes of Interstate 16 near Statesboro, forcing authorities to shut down the road on Thursday.
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While there have been no immediate reports of injuries, the flooding has posed significant challenges to residents and first responders across southern Georgia.
(With inputs from AP)
