News Summary
The City of Savannah is transitioning to Operating Condition 3 in response to the anticipated impacts of Tropical Storm Imelda, previously Tropical Depression Nine. While currently not under any warnings, residents are advised to stay informed and prepared. Projections include significant rainfall and potential wind gusts. The city is mobilizing resources to assist residents, including sandbags for flood prevention. Despite not being directly in the storm’s path, precautionary measures are encouraged as the situation evolves.
City of Savannah Prepares for Potential Impacts from Tropical Storm Imelda as Tropical Depression Nine Strengthens
On September 28, 2025, the City of Savannah transitioned to Operating Condition (OPCON) 3 in response to the anticipated impacts from Tropical Depression Nine (TD-9). This level indicates a significant threat from a tropical cyclone anticipated within the next 72 hours. The city’s Emergency Operations Plan is now activated, mobilizing staff and implementing preparedness measures in anticipation of the storm.
Tropical Depression Nine is currently located approximately 755 miles from Savannah and is expected to strengthen significantly over the coming days. As of now, Savannah is not under any tropical storm watches or warnings, but residents are urged to stay informed about potential developments.
Local impacts are projected to include 4 to 6 inches of rain and a 15% chance of tropical storm-force winds. While Savannah prepares, residents and businesses are advised to monitor updates through official city channels and to sign up for notifications from the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA).
To ensure safety, Savannah residents are encouraged to take measures to protect their property, review their emergency plans, and prepare emergency kits. The City’s Sanitation Department has also called for residents to secure their garbage carts and any loose debris around their homes.
To assist with potential flooding, sandbags will be available for residents and business owners on September 28 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at designated locations, which include the Enmarket Arena Parking Lot and Savannah Fire Station #7. Each household will be limited to five sandbags and is required to bring their own shovels.
For further information, residents can refer to the City of Savannah website and follow official social media accounts for real-time updates as the situation evolves.
Update on Tropical Storm Imelda
As recent reports indicate, Tropical Depression Nine has officially strengthened and is now designated Tropical Storm Imelda. Tropical storm warnings have been issued for the Bahamas, while a tropical storm watch is in effect along Florida’s east coast. Forecasters currently have medium to high confidence that Imelda will turn eastward, remaining offshore before reaching the mainland U.S.
The FOX Weather model suggests that while tropical rain bands may affect coastal Georgia, the main storm is expected to stay just offshore. Maximum sustained winds of 75 mph are predicted as Imelda approaches Georgia. However, coastal Georgia is expected to experience relatively minimal impacts.
Rainfall amounts of 1-2 inches are anticipated primarily on the upcoming Tuesday, with the possibility of brief street flooding. Although sustained tropical storm winds are not expected, gusts may reach 35 mph along the coast and 30 mph inland. Additionally, high seas, surf, rip currents, and potential beach erosion are likely as a result of the storm’s approach.
Hurricane Humberto
In other weather news, Hurricane Humberto is currently classified as a Category 4 hurricane. Although it is expected to weaken, Humberto does not pose a threat to the U.S. mainland at this time.
As Savannah residents prepare for the potential impacts of Tropical Storm Imelda, remaining informed and taking precautionary measures is crucial to ensure safety and preparedness during this weather event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Community Centers Closed Due to Severe Weather
Low-Category Hurricane Imelda Projected to Impact Coastal Georgia and Carolinas
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Tropical Storm Imelda Expected to Form
- Savannah Now: Models Predict TD-9 Will Turn Away
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Imelda Officially Forms
- Wikipedia: General Information
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Imelda
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
