The National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston, South Carolina, has issued a tornado watch for several regions in Georgia and South Carolina, including Statesboro and Bulloch County. This watch is in effect until 1:00 PM EST on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
The watch covers numerous counties across both states:
In Georgia, the affected counties include Bryan, Bulloch, Candler, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Jenkins, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Screven, and Tattnall. In South Carolina, the counties include Allendale, Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, Hampton, and Jasper.
Cities such as Statesboro, Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Charleston, North Charleston, and Summerville are included under this watch, emphasizing the widespread nature of the potential threat.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and informed during this period. If a tornado warning is issued, indicating that a tornado has been confirmed or is imminent, it is crucial to take immediate shelter. The safest locations include basements or interior rooms on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
It is advisable to prepare an emergency kit with essential items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a battery-operated radio.
In related safety efforts, the City of Statesboro and Bulloch County are implementing the CodeRED system, a high-speed emergency notification service. This system is designed to alert residents about emergencies, which can include locating missing children, apprehending criminals, and facilitating timely evacuations.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, local news sources, and the NWS for ongoing updates.
The forecast may seem daunting, but by staying informed and prepared, communities can navigate through this challenging weather event with a greater sense of security. Let us remain hopeful and proactive in ensuring the safety of ourselves and our neighbors during severe weather situations.