North Georgia Flooding: Red Cross Opens Shelter in Blue Ridge

Media release from the American Red Cross Georgia Region:

The American Red Cross has opened a shelter in Blue Ridge for North Georgia residents impacted by widespread flooding. The shelter is currently open and available to individuals and families who need assistance. The Red Cross is working closely with emergency management and local government officials in the impacted areas.

Shelter is currently open at the following location:

Fannin County Recreation Department
580 Winding Drive
Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Individuals evacuating to a Red Cross shelter should bring essential items for each member of their family, including:

• Prescription and emergency medications
• Foods that meet special dietary requirements
• Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
• Chargers for any electronic devices

All Red Cross disaster assistance is free and made possible through the generosity of the public. People in need of emergency assistance are asked to call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit www.redcross.org.

Download the free Red Cross Emergency app here for real-time alerts, expert advice in English and Spanish, and available disaster shelter and support locations or call 1-800-RED CROSS to find open shelters near you.

FLOOD SAFETY:

• Know the difference between a watch and warning. A watch means that a flood or flash flood is possible in your area, while a warning means that flooding/flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

• Listen to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates. 

• Be prepared to evacuate quickly if directed and know your routes and destinations. If someone needs to find a shelter they can visit redcross.org/shelter. 

• Check emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply. Keep it nearby. 
• Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground. Evacuate if directed. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. 

• Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage. 

• Avoid already flooded areas and areas that are subject to sudden flooding such as dips, low spots, canyons, washes etc. Stay away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains. 

• Do not attempt to cross flowing streams or water covered roads. 

• If caught in a flash flood, try to get to higher ground and stay there. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and two feet will float a car. 

• Turn around and find another route if you come upon floodwater, rapidly rising water or barricades. 

• Don’t allow children to play in or near flood water. It may be contaminated with sewage.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.