Augusta Mayor, EMA give Sunday updates on Helene clean-up, power & water situation

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson and Augusta Fire/EMA held a press conference on Sunday to provide the public with an update on Helene recovery efforts.

The Mayor called this the worst storm in the city's history.

Georgia Power will have 5,000 linemen in this region by Monday, in their effort to restore power to the CSRA.

Shelters at Henry Brigham and May Park are not at capacity and both have air conditioning. But you will not be able to charge your phone at either shelter.

Trash and debris from high levels in the Savannah River and the canal are blocking water filters in the system. GEMA tells us that restoring water operations is a top priority. Water services should be restored within 24 to 48 hours.

Augusta Fire Departments are fully operational. All Augusta area hospitals are fully operational.

Generators are being sent to the area. Raceway Gas Stations will be receiving generators soon. The Mayor reiterated that there is not a gas shortage, the stations just need power restored.

Local jails have generators for power, but water remains an issue.

Distribution centers are working to be operational at Diamond Lakes, Municipal Building and Southgate. They will send notice of when they are open for distribution.

The Augusta Commission will meet virtually Monday at 2 p.m. to discuss further plans for restoration.