[ September 25, 2024 ] Residents in Pickens County are urged to prepare for severe weather over the next two days. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for all 159 counties in response to the impending Tropical Storm Helene.

Tropical Storm Helene is expected to become a Category 3 hurricane as it approaches Florida and subsequently impacts Georgia with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential power outages.

Recommendations include staying informed through local news and weather updates, making arrangements for potential power outages, and avoiding travel during hazardous conditions (such as flooded roads or downed power lines).

As a precautionary measure, Pickens County Schools will hold a digital learning day on Thursday, September 28th with the District offices remaining open and staff reporting as usual. However, all Pickens County Schools and the District Office will be closed on Friday, September 27th, due to the anticipated inclement weather.

Other affected events and businesses include:

• The Senior Health Fair, originally scheduled for September 27th, has been rescheduled to October 18th.
• Artwalk Jasper, initially planned for Friday, September 27th, is postponed, with the rescheduled date yet to be determined.
• The North Georgia Health District 1-2 will be CLOSED on Friday, September 27, 2024. This closure includes district offices, health departments, WIC offices, and Environmental Health offices in Pickens and surrounding counties.
• The City of Nelson Movie in the Park planned for Saturday, September 28th is canceled. New date will be determined later.

Stay safe, Pickens County!