(Media release from American Red Cross of Georgia):
The American Red Cross of Georgia has expanded the areas of care following another round of storms overnight. A second round of damaging storms ripped through much of the state Wednesday afternoon and into the early morning hours. Disaster volunteers responded quickly to provide emergency essentials and emotional support for families in need.
Surveying teams have found that this most recent round of damage mirrors causes from the day prior, i.e.: heavy rain, severe thunderstorms, and tornadic activity. The storms led to more power outages, damaged trees, and snapped power lines. The counties that the Red Cross has begun, and continued, to aid has expanded. We are now assisting residents in the following areas: Bibb, Bleckley, Bryan, Dodge, Houston, Taylor, Thomas, Troup, Twiggs, and Wilcox. Several neighboring counties have also reported scattered damage. One unconfirmed fatality has been reported, along with 15 injuries.
In response to this destruction, the American Red Cross of Georgia has increased its deployed staff and volunteers to 41 people, of which 26 are virtual. Their goal is to continue helping displaced residents and surveying damage.
Shelter location is:
· Lanier Primary School
6024 Hwy. 280 E.
Pembroke, GA 31321
Red Cross responders are continuing to reach out to those residents whose homes have been destroyed or severely damaged to provide assistance through: sheltering, feeding, distribution of emergency supplies, and health and mental health services.
The Red Cross is committed to helping those impacted by a disaster take their next steps, provide additionally recovery resources, and help them to their new normal. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible through the generosity of the community. People in need of emergency assistance are asked to call 1-800 Red Cross (1-800-733-2767).
Blood Shortage
The American Red Cross is reminding blood donors it’s critically important to maintain a stable blood supply this Spring to support those impacted by disasters like this. Make an appointment today by using the Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). There is currently an emergency need for blood and platelet donors of all types.
Prepare your family
Take three simple steps to ensure your family is prepared for disasters. 1) Build a kit, 2) Make a plan and 3) Stay informed. Search “American Red Cross” in your app store or visit redcross.org/apps to download our free apps to ensure you have lifesaving information right at your fingertips.
