The National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston, South Carolina has announced a tornado watch affecting several areas in Georgia and South Carolina, including Bulloch County. This watch is active until 1:00 PM EST on Sunday, December 29, 2024. The affected Georgia 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.
Major cities impacted by this watch comprise Statesboro, Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Charleston, North Charleston, and Summerville, among others.
During a tornado watch, individuals are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed. This means monitoring weather conditions through the National Weather Service and local news channels. If a tornado warning is issued, which indicates that a tornado has been sighted or is being indicated by radar, people should seek immediate shelter. Ideal locations to take cover include basements or interior rooms on the lowest floors of sturdy buildings.
It is also recommended to prepare an emergency kit containing essential items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, flashlight, and a battery-operated radio.
In response to growing safety needs, the City of Statesboro and Bulloch County have partnered to implement the CodeRED system, a rapid emergency notification service aimed at enhancing public safety. This system has been credited with saving lives across the country by providing timely alerts on various emergencies.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert for any developments regarding the weather and to stay connected to NOAA Weather Radio or local news sources for updates.
As the watch is in effect, we hope that communities take proactive steps to ensure their safety and stay informed. Remember, preparedness is key to weathering any storm!
Overall, the proactive measures being implemented, such as the CodeRED system, highlight a community’s commitment to safety and readiness in the face of severe weather conditions.