City and County still respond to calls; multiple street closures listed

10/10 11:25 p.m. - A later shift to the west moved Lowndes County out of the forecast area for the strong winds that have been reported this week. Emergency Management is encouraging citizens to remain aware of their surroundings until the forecast clears. The tornado watch for Lowndes County has been cancelled. In addition, both Moody Air Force Base and the Valdosta Regional Airport continue to record wind gusts in excess of 40 mph.

Our current response is related to the following:

-There are approximately 7,500 customers in Lowndes County without power. Power companies cannot begin to restore service until winds move through the area. Meanwhile, public works, fire and law enforcement are working to keep roads clear so that crews can begin working on power restoration as soon as possible. There are power lines down across Lowndes County. Downed lines are nearly impossible to see, citizens are encouraged to use caution when traveling.

-Wind gusts in the area continue to sporadically take down trees and power lines. This being the case, the number of residents without power is expected to increase slightly throughout the night.

-The Emergency Operations Center remains fully manned and will continue operation until a coordinated response is no longer needed.

-No injuries have been reported at this time.

-No major damage has been reported, only a few limbs on homes.

-There are two traffic lights out in the City of Valdosta, at Oak Street and Northside Drive and Gordon Street and Melody Lane.

-Claudia Circle has a partial closure. University Drive at Seymour Street is closed. There is also a road closure at 1205 Bethune Street.

-In Lowndes County, the flashing lights at Rocky Ford and Ousley Roads have been damaged and will not be repaired until Thursday.

-Highway 122 is closed east of Hahira in several locations between Hahira and Walkers Crossing.