Officials announce curfew beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday as Hurricane Michael arrives

With the expected arrival of Hurricane Michael late Wednesday afternoon, a mandatory curfew will go into effect beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday and lasting until 6 p.m. Thursday. This includes the entire county, including Douglas, Ambrose, Broxton, and Nicholls. Businesses are also being asked to abide by the curfew.

Officials urge citizens to take caution with this storm. Winds are predicted to be sustained 40-60 mph with gusts to 70 mph. Conditions are comparable to those of Hurricane Irma, possibly worse. Conditions will worsen as nightfall occurs with the peak of the winds expected between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. Citizens can expect tropical storm conditions for nine to 12 hours or longer. There is also a slight risk of tornados with this storm. A Red Cross shelter will be opening around 5 p.m. Wednesday at Central Square Complex.

Once sustained winds reach 35 mph, public safety will cease normal response. At this point, calls will be evaluated on a call by call basis. Public safety, public works and utility workers will be out once conditions allow, assessing and repairing damages and clearing debris from roadways, so please stay off the roads and give them time to make sure conditions are safe for travel. Schools will be closed Wednesday and Thursday; this includes both South Georgia State College and Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.

For current weather conditions visit www.weather.gov/JAX