ATLANTA — Gov. Brian Kemp is extending the State of Emergency for areas of Georgia still recovering from Helene.
The extension comes weeks after he enacted one before Helene left behind a wake of destruction in parts of south and central Georgia, leaving at least 25 dead in the state and even more across the Southeast.
The governor announced the move in a post on X, adding, "For as long as needed, we will work with those on the local level to ensure resources are available for those who need them."
The executive order helps with immediate resource assistance in the aftermath of the storm.
More than 50 counties in Georgia have been approved for assistance under a federal disaster declaration since Helene left a swath of destruction from Valdosta to Augusta, in what Kemp likened to last week as a "230, 240-mile tornado went through our state."
In addition, Georgia Power is extending its grace period for all customers impacted by Hurricane Helene.
In a text message sent out to customers, Georgia Power noted it has "extended the suspension of disconnections, waiving eligible late fees, and pausing collection activities through December 15."
Kemp also announced he was suspending the state's gas tax.
In an executive order, he stated Helene has negatively impacted the supply of goods and services to areas hit hardest by the storm and, therefore, "the social and economic well-being of Georgia's residents."
