Habersham County continues recovery efforts following significant storm damage, with 115 roads currently impacted by multiple downed trees. At least 50% of these roads have power lines entangled in debris, creating hazardous conditions.
County road crews have been rotating rest periods throughout the event and remain fully prepared to resume operations. We are coordinating closely with Georgia Power and Habersham Electric Membership Corporation (HEMC) to ensure safe and efficient clearing of roadways.
While travel conditions have improved compared to previous days, roads remain unsafe for public travel. We strongly urge residents to stay off roadways whenever possible while crews prioritize clearing main thoroughfares first, followed by smaller arterial roads. Many destinations may still be inaccessible due to blocked routes, downed trees, and active power lines.
To accelerate response in the hardest hit areas, we have four GEMA-provided tree crews assisting in the most severely affected zones. The heaviest damage occurred from the Orchard area westward to White County and northward to Rabun County, though scattered pockets of damage remain throughout the county.
Additionally, salt treatments of school bus routes, arterial roads, and emergency service stations have been implemented. However, trees must be cleared from roadways before these routes can be treated.
Public safety remains our top priority. Residents should avoid downed trees and power lines, treat all utility lines as live, and report urgent road hazards to the appropriate authorities.
We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we work to restore safe travel as quickly as possible.
