Savannah Standard

The City of Savannah is continuing its response to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. City administrative offices and facilities resumed operations on Tuesday, maintaining a regular schedule throughout the week. The city remains under a state of emergency declared on September 25, which has enabled the activation of the Emergency Operations Plan.

As of Wednesday, October 2, assessments indicate that 339 structures have been affected by the hurricane, with damages categorized as follows: 15 minor damages, 96 major damages, and eight structures destroyed. The estimated cost for public assistance is projected to exceed $10.5 million.

Sanitation and debris collection efforts are underway with approximately 300,000 cubic yards of debris reported citywide. Contracted debris removal operations are set to begin on Friday. While residential refuse collection and street sweeping services continue normally, recycling activities have been suspended.

Community centers in Savannah have reopened except for Woodville Center and Windsor Forrest Regional Center due to power outages. Temporary comfort and charging centers are available at Tompkins Regional Center and Grant Center Gymnasium from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., while Daffin Park Pool operates daily from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Several neighborhood charging stations have been established across the city including Carver Village Community Center and Tatumville Community Center among others.

Traffic updates reveal that 15 roads remain impacted with numerous trees downed along with power lines affecting traffic signals at several intersections.

Residents are advised to report any broken tree limbs through the city's hotline by dialing 311. All city-owned cemeteries remain closed until further notice.

Resources for residents include gasoline availability tracking via tracker.gasbuddy.com, debris cleanup assistance through crisiscleanup.org or by calling 1-844-965-1386, and FEMA Individual Assistance accessible at disasterassistance.gov.

Georgia Power reports an estimated total of 25,400 power outages affecting about 16% of the community as of October 2nd.

Public safety data shows a total event count of calls made during this period: SPD received 882 calls; SFD responded to over three thousand incidents; there were also numerous service requests submitted via Savannah's online platforms or mobile app SAV311.

Residents seeking updates specific to their area can follow @cityofsavannah on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter or visit savannahga.gov/stormhelene for more information.