Cobb County issued the following news release announcing that Cobb BOC Chairwoman Lisa Cupid has signed a State of Emergency:

Chairwoman Lisa Cupid has signed a local State of Emergency for Cobb County due to the anticipated impacts of Hurricane Helene. This declaration will enable the county to access state and federal resources more quickly if needed in the coming days.

Chairwoman Cupid urged Cobb County residents to make preparations for the approaching storm system.

“I encourage everyone to take precautions and avoid travel during the storm,” said Chairwoman Cupid. “Forecasters are predicting high winds and heavy rainfall. With the amount of rain we’ve already received, flooding is likely. If you live in a flood-prone area, please assess whether it is necessary to relocate to a safer location.”

County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris has ordered county facilities to close at noon on Thursday, with county workers instructed to remain at home through Friday. While county offices will close, Cobb’s essential workers—including Cobb DOT, 911, Emergency Management, police, and fire departments—are preparing to respond to the storm.

Cobb DOT crews will transition to 12-hour shifts starting tonight to handle calls regarding downed trees, blocked roads, or flooding. EMA will activate its Emergency Operations Center, and a combined police and fire incident command will coordinate the emergency response. Additionally, 911 will increase its number of operators to manage the expected surge in calls and dispatch emergency responders.

During the peak of the storm, anticipated on Friday morning, residents are asked to call 911 only for immediate emergencies. For non-emergency assistance, a list of contact numbers is available on the Helene Information page at cobbcounty.org.

Helene Information Page can be viewed at https://www.cobbcounty.org/helene-information

Chairwoman Lisa Cupid statementcan be viewed at https://youtu.be/tf2XW8T-q5A