ATLANTA — As Hurricane Helene approaches north Georgia, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is taking proactive measures to ensure residents' safety and preparedness.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Dickens emphasized the importance of taking the necessary steps to keep the city safe.
“My deal is we have to get prepared for whatever may come," Dickens said. "Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.”
Here are some ways the City of Atlanta is preparing for the upcoming inclement weather:
City services
- The city has activated a Joint Operation Center, which will open at 7 a.m. to monitor weather patterns and assess street conditions to quickly detect flooding and debris. The mayor said crews have already started clearing drains ahead of the storm to help prevent flooding.
- The Atlanta Department of Transportation has also cleared bridges and curb inlets while chainsaw crews are on standby to respond to downed trees.
- The Department of Public Works has implemented a 24/7 staffing plan to guarantee that the city remains covered during the storm.
- Barricades have been positioned throughout the city for rapid deployment, ensuring that emergency services can act quickly.
- E911 operators are prepared to shelter in place as needed.
- The Westin Hotel has generously offered to house 911 crews during the storm, allowing them to work around the clock.
- Atlanta Fire and Rescue teams are also on alert, prepared for swift water rescues and to assist with downed trees.
- All precincts of the Atlanta Police Department (APD) have been stocked with extra supplies.
- The city’s 311 services will operate outside regular hours, providing 24-hour support starting at midnight on Thursday. Additionally, all remote staff members will be equipped with Wi-Fi packs in case of power outages.
- All activities at Parks and Recreation centers have been canceled for Wednesday and Thursday.
- Mayor Dickens has also urged nonessential city employees to work from home for their safety.
Airport
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is preparing for potential flight cancellations and has plans to accommodate stranded passengers.
- Limited restaurants inside the airport will remain open.
- Cleaning crews will be on hand throughout the terminals and concourses.
Resources for unhoused community
- Wellstar has agreed to provide housing for unhoused individuals at its facilities.
- The following Parks and Recreation facilities will be available if needed: Selena S. Butler Park, for unhouse including Selena Butler Parks, Old Adamsville Recreation Center, and Central Park Recreation Center, should they be needed.
Atlanta residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by texting “NotifyATL” to 24639 to stay informed during the storm.