AMERICUS — Americus and Sumter County are currently under a state of emergency in preparation for Hurricane Irma, which is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the area as early as Sunday evening and lasting through Tuesday night. The National Weather Service is currently predicting maximum sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph with wind gusts possibly as high as 70 mph. Downed trees and widespread power outages can be expected as well as the possibility for localized flooding.

All non-essential city offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 11. A curfew will be in effect within the City of Americus from sunset until sunrise on Monday and Tuesday. Residents are encouraged to make preparations now for power outages that could last up to a week. The following precautions are recommended in advance of the storm.

• Persons with medical needs should prepare now, by making sure that they have an adequate supply of all necessary medications.
• Persons on well water need to have at least a five-day supply of bottled water available. Those residents on city water should not experience an interruption in their water supply, but may wish to have bottled water on hand.
• All residents should have at least a five-day supply of non-perishable food items, such as canned goods and dry food items.
• All residents are encouraged to secure any loose items, such as lawn furniture and trash cans that may be in their yards. These items can become airborne projectiles in high wind.
• All residents must be aware that should sustained winds reach 45 mph, emergency personnel will seek shelter and will not be able to respond to calls for service until the wind speeds decrease.
• Emergency personnel will respond to calls for service in order of priority, but be aware that downed trees and powerlines may prevent first responders from reaching you until the trees and lines can be cleared.
• Stay tuned to your local television or radio stations to receive information.
• There are currently no emergency shelters open in Sumter County, but shelters are available in Cordele, Columbus and Macon for those that need them.