CEMA Tropical Storm Hanna News Release #11

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING has been issued for an area that includes Chatham County.

AT 08:00AM, the center of Tropical Storm Hanna was located near latitude 28.2 N, 78.8W, or approximately 330 miles South-Southeast of Chatham County. Movement is to the Northwest near 18 MPH. A gradual turn to the North with an increase in forward speed is expected later today.

Maximum sustained winds are near 65mph with higher gusts. Tropical Storm Force Winds extend outward up to 315 miles from the center. Only a slight strengthening is forecast prior to landfall along the Carolina Coast, although it is still possible for HANNA to become a hurricane.

The effects from HANNA can be expected along the coast beginning today. Before midnight, we can expect 1-2 inches of rain and 15-25mph winds, with gusts to 45-55mph. Coastal storm surge flooding of 1-2 feet above normal tide levels, along with minor beach erosion is likely. After midnight, winds should decrease to 15-25mph. Swells from HANNA continue to cause a high risk of dangerous RIP currents along portions of the Georgia Coast. The tornado threat associated with HANNA for our area is low.

Widespread disruptions to our local power grid may occur due to downed trees and power lines. Citizens who rely on electrically powered equipment for health and safety reasons, especially in our island areas, need to make appropriate preparations.

CEMA will continue to remain in OPCON 4 which is the first stage of advanced alert and preparation. Emergency response agencies should review their Hurricane Plans and determine the availability of assets, resources and personnel. Agencies with reporting responsibilities should be doing so at this time. All interested parties should maintain vigilance in monitoring this storm, thoroughly check emergency supplies, and review evacuation plans.