Over the weekend, devastating tornadoes hit several areas in the southeastern US. Southwest Georgia was particularly hard hit. We have reached out to United Ways in the area and will update this page as we get more information on the impact of the storm and recovery efforts.
United Way of Southwest Georgia
Albany, Georgia and surrounding areas were hit with major tornadoes on January 2nd and again last weekend. Over 30,000 homes were without power for several days - some for weeks - after the first storm, which caused millions of dollars in damages to homes and businesses. This past weekend they were hit again by an even more destructive system, which affected 75 percent of the community. There are reports of complete losses in some areas and multiple fatalities. Their local Marine Base and local Procter & Gamble site were also damaged by the storms. The area will require long-term recovery efforts.
United Way of Southeast Mississippi
The area around Hattiesburg, Mississippi was also hit by a devastating tornado last weekend. United Way of Southeast Mississippi is serving as a volunteer center and is working with the the Salvation Arm, Red Cross and other local agencies providing clothes, food, ice and tarps. Here are updated statistics as of 1/23: Affected (422); Minor Damage (209); Major Damage (249); Destroyed (234) The area will require long-term recovery efforts.
United Way of South Central Georgia
They serve five Counties – Ben Hill, Cook, Irwin, Tift and Turner Counties. Cook County was hit the worst and experienced fatalities. Requests for donations to support the Disaster Relief Fund have been posted on Facebook. The area will require long-term recovery efforts.
United Way of Colquitt
The community had some power outages and some trees down, but nothing like their neighbors on both sides.
Greater Valdosta United Way
There was some damage in Brooks and Berrien Counties. The United Way is acting as a drop-off location. There is a need for corrugated boxes.
United Way of Thomas County
There were no fatalities. 91 homes in Thomas County had damage and of that number, 11 were destroyed.
News Coverage
At Least 18 Die as Tornadoes Sweep Southeast U.S. (New York Times)
Albany Fire Department and United Way Volunteers / Volunteer Reception Center (WALB News 10)
Resources from United Way and Volunteer Hattiesburg. (Hattiesburg American)
