124 Bull Street, Suite 140
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 201-4500
http://cema.chathamcounty.org
SITUATION REPORT #4
Ernesto

8/30/2006    5:30 PM
At 5:00 PM EDT, the center of Tropical Storm Ernesto was located near 27.6 North and 80.8 West or about 303 miles South of Savannah. Ernesto is moving toward the North near 14 mph. Maximum sustained are near 35 mph with higher gusts. A tropical storm warning remains in effect for the entire Georgia coast.  
 
As of 5:00PM the Chatham County Board of Education has decided to close all PUBLIC SCHOOLS for Thursday, August 31, 2006.  
 
Based on the current forecast, the earliest impact to our area from Tropical Storm Ernesto would begin early Thursday morning and continue throughout the day. Sustained winds of 30-40 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are possible along the immediate coast and 20-30 mph winds with gusts up to 40 mph inland. These winds have the potential to result in tides 1 foot above normal. Total rainfall amounts of up to 1-3 inches are expected for our area. Forecast amounts could vary depending on the track of the storm. Any east or west deviation from the current forecast track could alter the wind and rain predicted for this area. CEMA will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as information becomes available.  
 
CEMA recommends the following activities:  
• Boat owners should take action now to remove their boats from water or secure them for heavy weather conditions.  
• Remove articles from your yard that may become flying hazards.  
• Stay indoors and away from windows during periods of strong gusty winds.  
• Stay away from downed power lines.  
• Report any power outages to Georgia Power at 1-888-891-0938.  
• Ensure you have a flashlight with extra batteries.  
• Avoid using candles if possible.  
• Stay tuned to your local TV and radio for storm information.  
• DO NOT drive thru flooded roads.  
 
CEMA remains at OPCON 4 with a limited EOC activation. OPCON 4 is the first stage of advanced alert readiness. This notification is being given as a precautionary measure. All interested parties should maintain vigilance in monitoring this storm. A thorough check of emergency supplies for in- place sheltering should commence. Emergency response agencies should review their hurricane plans and determine the availability of their assets, resources and personnel. Those agencies that have responsibility to share this release should begin doing so at this time.  
 
The next Situation Report will be issued Thursday morning.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Information in the Situation Report should be distributed as necessary to your partners and customers.
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