Hurricane Florence is approaching the U.S. East Coast, threatening Georgia and the Carolinas. While the storm speed is decreasing somewhat, disastrous circumstances are still expected, and Georgia is still under a state of emergency, WSB-TV reports.
Credit: National Hurricane Center
Georgia
The nursery industry in the state of Georgia is bracing for impact, with the Southern Nursery Association having opened the SNA Disaster Relief Forum to the public during Hurricane Florence. Meanwhile, Hoffman Nursery will be closing at noon on Thursday, Sept. 13th and will remain closed Friday, Sept. 14th. "Assuming all is well, we will reopen for normal business hours (8:30 am to 4:30 pm) on Monday, Sept. 17. We will monitor the situation and provide any scheduling or shipping updates as needed."
North Carolina
The North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association has informed members that their office will be closed Thursday, September 13, 2018 and Friday, September 14, 2018 so that staff can prepare their families and homes for the coming storm.
Depending on the impact of the storm, the NCNLA office may remain closed through Tuesday of next week. If you need immediate assistance for recovery efforts after the storm please contact the following board members based on your area:
Depending on the impact of the storm, the NCNLA office may remain closed through Tuesday of next week. If you need immediate assistance for recovery efforts after the storm please contact the following board members based on your area:
- Eastern North Carolina: Jamie Thomas, Swift Creek Nursery: (919) 934-7764
- Central North Carolina: Shanon Spivey, Spivey's Nursery: (336) 992-2530
- Western North Carolina: Chad Gragg, Buffalo Creek Nurseries: (828) 754-2965
For more information, see the NCNLA's Hurricane Preparedness page.
Flights cancelled
Because of Hurricane Florence, airlines are likely to cancel many flights in the direct path of the storm and the surrounding areas, the FAA warns. Flights that are not cancelled may be delayed.
USDA offering help to affected growers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds rural communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses potentially impacted by Hurricane Florence of programs to provide assistance in the wake of disasters. USDA staff in the regional, State and county offices stand ready and eager to help. Additionally, USDA’s Operations Center will function around the clock. Click here for more information on assistance provided by the USDA to those affected by the hurricane.