PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT…FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE…
Monday, April 28, 2014 11:15 a.m.
Sheriff warns of Potential For Severe Weather in Next 24 Hours
Sheriff Mitch Ralston Announces:
A severe storm front is approaching North Georgia which has already spawned a number of catastrophic tornadoes in Arkansas and Kansas. Those tornadoes resulted in widespread damage and a number of fatalities. This storm front is expected to arrive in northwest Georgia sometime within a time span of this evening into tonight. We expect an especially critical time to be during the hours after midnight. Gordon County residents should make preparations for severe weather, including power outages. Have a plan to retreat to a safe place in the event of a tornado. An underground storm shelter or basement is best. If a storm shelter or basement is not available, go to a room in the center of the house, preferably underneath a sturdy object such as a heavy table. Use blankets and pillows to protect yourself from flying debris, and any type of helmet will help protect you from head injury. Residents should closely monitor media outlets and the National Weather Service for watches and warnings throughout the next 24 hours.
We are in an area which has been designated as having a TOR CON 6 value, which indicates there is at least a 60% probability of a tornado within a 50 mile radius during the danger time. I have deployed extra personnel in anticipation of the arrival of this severe weather along with the activation of our fleet of BRAVO emergency 4WD vehicles. My command staff and I will continue to monitor the situation via the media, the weather service, and the NOAA throughout the next 24 hours. We will publish updates on the Sheriff’s Office website www.gordonsheriff.org concerning any emergency situation in our County.