Panama City is preparing for the landfall of Tropical Storm Helene

PANAMA CITY – Local officials are on high alert as Tropical Storm Helene approaches the Florida coast.

In a news release Tuesday, Panama City officials said the city is “conducting a partial Phase 1 activation of its comprehensive emergency response plan” ahead of Helene, which makes landfall near the Big Bend area Thursday afternoon as a Category 3 storm should .

Webcams: View beach conditions in the Panama City, Florida area ahead of possible Hurricane Helene

“This partial activation focuses on storm preparation and readiness,” the release said. “The Public Works Department has inspected the drainage areas, cleared the gates and ditches and lowered the level of the storm water basin to allow proper water flow during rains.

“Along with other teams in the city, they are also preparing equipment for mobilization and making plans for personnel if and/or when a full activation is required.”

Where can I get sandbags in Panama City?

City officials also announced in an email Tuesday that 500 sandbags will be available for pickup to residents at 3404 W. 19th St. and west of 3000 W. 19th St. The number of sandbags is limited to 10 per resident and business.

Jasmine Montgomery, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, said Tuesday morning that Bay County residents can expect tropical storm-force winds and about 4 to 8 inches of rain from Helene.

“Bay County is currently under a tropical storm watch,” Montgomery said. “In view of the amount of rain, we are also under flood watch from Wednesday evening to Friday morning.”

Although the forecast is still evolving, Montgomery does not believe the storm will shift far enough to have a catastrophic impact on Bay County.

Waiting for landing: Tropical Storm Helene is forming: Bay County is threatened with wind and heavy rain

The press release states that flooding as a result of Helene's heavy rain is a concern for the city. Since Monday afternoon, more than 1,300 sandbags have been distributed to residents.

“We encourage our citizens to continue their own storm preparations and safety plans,” the release said. “Our teams continue to fill sandbags and provide them to our citizens and businesses in Panama City.”

Panama City is preparing for the landfall of Tropical Storm Helene

ByVanessa

Where can I get sandbags in Panama City?

By Vanessa

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