Zeta results in widespread power outages, downed trees

News
tropical storm Zeta

RABUN COUNTY, Ga – Many residents in Rabun County are still without power after tropical storm Zeta moved through the area.

Georgia Power is reporting 19 outages and that 11,288 people are without power. The organization is currently assessing how long it will take to fully restore power.

One of the main power lines that feeds into the transmission substation is down. Georgia Power is aware, but doesn’t know when it will be repaired.

Rabun County Sheriff’s Office asks that citizens “be vigilant when traveling the roads” and to stay inside if at all possible.

In a statement, the sheriff’s office said:

“As of right now, the power is out throughout the entire county. This means no red lights or gas stations. Please consider all of these hazards before you decide to get into your car to head out somewhere. If your travel is necessary, please use caution and plan ahead by making sure that you have enough gas to get to your destination, a cell phone, and other items in your car that may be necessary if you are in your car for an extended amount of time due to road closure. Trees are falling rapidly in all areas of the County. Deputies, First Responders, and other essential county staff are responding as quickly as possible. However, as the wind continues to increase thru out the day, trees and other debris will start falling causing dangerous conditions. Please use extreme caution. We highly encourage you to stay inside and off the roadways if possible. Be safe and keep all your public safety men and women and linemen in your thoughts.”

The Rabun County EMA released that several roads are flooded including old 441, Darnell Creek, and the McDonald’s/Food Bank parking lot.

Georgia Power outage map from tropical storm Zeta.

Drivers are asked to not drive-thru flooded roads if they must be out. Also, if a red light is out, treat it as a four-way stop.

Rabun EMA asks public to use caution around downed power lines

Community, Weather
power

RABUN COUNTY, Ga – Widespread north Georgia storms resulted in several trees down and leaves around 1,500 without power.

Rabun County EMA instructs the public to not assume the power is off to a line and to stay away from any downed lines.

The Mathis Dame gate is open and some other areas are flooded. Crews will be working throughout the day to restore power and remove the damage.

EMA also asks the public to check on neighbors while social distancing and take care of each other.

From Habersham EMC:

“Approximately 4,183 meters currently out throughout service area. Habersham remains largest affected county with approximately 3,141 meters out. Lee Electric and McAllister crews are working to assist HEMC personnel.

Please avoid downed lines and treat all as if energized.

Continue to report outages and hazards by phone:
(706) 754-2114
(706) 865-4362
(800) 640-6812.”

Rabun was under a tornado watch until 8 a.m. The storm was mainly to the west and reported winds of up to 60 mph. A tornado did touch down in Murray County with five confirmed dead and 23 injured.

Fetch Your News will update as more information becomes available.

Feature image from Habersham EMC.

 

 

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