Savannah Standard

The City of Savannah has initiated recovery operations following the impacts of Hurricane Helene, with efforts expected to continue for several weeks. The state of emergency declared by the city will expire at 8 p.m. on Friday, October 4.

Debris removal has commenced and is projected to last four to six weeks. Approximately 300,000 cubic yards of debris are estimated. Residents are advised to limit yard waste collection to containerized materials in paper bags or 32-gallon cans and place them at regular collection points without obstructing roadways or storm drains. Vegetative debris should be placed on the right-of-way and not on streets, avoiding placement near trees, poles, or structures that could impede removal. Debris must be separated into categories: vegetative waste, bulk items, and demolition debris.

Due to extensive food spoilage from power outages, recycling services have been suspended until further notice by the City’s Sanitation Department. Regular residential refuse collection routes will continue as usual. Recycling carts may be used for excess garbage and left curbside alongside garbage carts at normal collection points. If refuse collection was missed this week, residents can request service by calling 311 or visiting savannahga.gov/311.

Property owners are encouraged to contact their insurance providers for assistance with storm-related damages. Renters should reach out to landlords or management companies. Disaster relief assistance is available through FEMA at disasterassistance.gov.

The Development Services Department is waiving permit fees for repairs related to Hurricane Helene damage from October 1 through November 1, 2024. Residents and businesses needing repairs can apply for a permit fee waiver along with a repair permit application at savannahga.gov/helenerecovery.

As of Friday morning, Georgia Power reported 3,642 outages affecting 2.2% of the community. Residents can check outagemap.georgiapower.com for updates. The City collaborates with Georgia Power but holds no direct responsibility for power restoration.

City-owned cemeteries remain closed through Thursday, October 10 due to cleanup operations and are expected to reopen on Friday, October 11; some areas may still be restricted due to safety concerns.

For more information on recovery efforts, visit www.savannahga.gov/helenerecovery