Brunswick, Ga: Evacuation Or Stay?

Brunswick, GA, has had to evacuate multiple times in the past. In October 2016, a mandatory evacuation was ordered for residents in Evacuation Zone A, which included all areas east of Interstate 95 as well as Blythe Island and Oak Grove Island. More recently, in August 2023, a mandatory evacuation was announced for all areas of Glynn County east of I-95. Additionally, in April 2024, there were evacuations due to explosions and a fire at the Symrise chemical plant in Brunswick. These evacuations highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for residents to follow official instructions during such incidents.

Glynn County residents were evacuated due to a fire at the Symrise chemical plant

On Monday, November 7, 2022, a fire broke out at the Symrise chemical plant in Brunswick, Georgia, prompting the evacuation of nearby neighbourhoods. The Glynn County Sheriff's Office reported that the plant had been evacuated and multiple explosions were witnessed. The fire sent a thick plume of smoke into the air, with smoke hazards and the risk of explosions prompting officials to order evacuations within a 1-mile radius of the plant.

Three neighbourhoods—Hickory Bluff, Satilla Shores, and Royal Oaks—were evacuated, while Dover Bluff, Waverly, and Lampadoshia were later added to the list. Two schools in the area were also given a shelter-in-place notice. The Glynn County Board of Commissioners reported that about 100 households had been evacuated.

The fire was initially reported around 3:45-4:00 a.m. on Monday, with the first explosion occurring upon the arrival of the response team. Two more explosions followed, triggering a Code Red alert. A multi-agency fire detail, including Glynn County, Camden County, Nahunta, Jekyll Island, the city of Brunswick, Jacksonville, and Savannah, was called to the scene.

One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was hospitalized for exhaustion, but was reported to be in stable condition. No civilian injuries or casualties were reported, and everyone except for hazmat and emergency personnel was evacuated from the plant.

The chemical involved in the fire and explosions was identified as hydrogen peroxide pinene, a volatile chemical used in fragrances and mineral oils. While the fire was contained, the wind shift remained a concern for officials. Crews worked to finalize the monitoring of tanks, shut down valves, and extinguish fires, applying a foam blanket to suppress fumes and cool hot spots.

The State Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the cause of the blaze. Once cleared, the plant was to be returned to company officials.

Brunswick residents have been ordered to evacuate due to Hurricane Idalia

Hurricane Idalia, which formed in the eastern Pacific in August 2023, has caused evacuations in Brunswick, Georgia. The storm made landfall in Keaton Beach, Florida, on August 30, 2023, as a Category 3 hurricane, with sustained winds of 115-130 mph, causing severe damage to the area.

In anticipation of the hurricane, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency and activated the state's emergency operations center on August 29. Hurricane warnings were put in place for seven Georgia counties, and school districts across Montgomery, Telfair, Toombs, and Wheeler counties were closed. Atlanta Motor Speedway opened its campgrounds to evacuees free of charge.

Brunswick residents in Glynn County were ordered to evacuate on August 29, with Gov. Nathan Deal announcing the mandatory evacuation of all areas of Glynn County east of I-95, as well as some areas west of the interstate. The evacuation order was effective immediately, and residents were urged to leave as soon as possible.

When evacuating, it is important to follow official instructions and recommended routes. Bringing an emergency supply kit, important documents, and enough food and water for each person is essential. Securing your home by closing and locking doors and windows, unplugging electrical equipment, and shutting off utilities if instructed to do so, is also advised.

Evacuation Zones and Routes are planned by the Glynn County Board of Commissioners

Evacuation orders in Brunswick, GA, are issued by the Glynn County Board of Commissioners. Evacuation Zones and Routes are planned by the Board to ensure the safety of residents in the event of an emergency, such as a hurricane or a chemical plant explosion.

In the case of an emergency, residents should listen to local radio or TV stations for the latest updates and instructions from emergency management officials. These instructions will include information on the nearest evacuation route and public shelter. For those without access to a car, information will be provided on alternative transportation options.

The Glynn County Board of Commissioners utilizes social media, such as Facebook, to communicate with residents during an emergency. They also provide a phone number, (912) 554-7111, for residents to call for more information. In addition, the Glynn County Health Department can be contacted directly for assistance with medical problems and evacuation-related inquiries.

The Glynn County Board of Commissioners has previously called for mandatory evacuations in specific zones, such as Evacuation Zone A, which includes all areas east of Interstate 95, as well as Blythe Island and Oak Grove Island. Residents in the affected areas are advised to follow the instructions of officials and evacuate immediately if necessary.

Residents are advised to listen to local radio or TV stations for the latest updates

In the event of an emergency, it's important to stay informed through local radio or TV stations, as they will provide the latest updates and instructions specific to your area. This is particularly crucial when facing potential evacuation orders, as the situation can change rapidly.

In Glynn County, Georgia, residents are advised to pay close attention to local radio and TV stations for emergency updates. This is especially relevant when hurricanes or other severe weather events threaten the area. In the past, mandatory evacuations have been ordered for areas like Evacuation Zone A, which includes all regions east of Interstate 95, as well as Blythe Island and Oak Grove Island.

During an emergency, local radio and TV broadcasts will provide vital information on evacuation routes and the locations of public shelters. They will also inform residents about alternative transportation options for those without access to a car. For example, during previous hurricanes, residents were directed to specific locations to utilize the Need-a-Ride program.

Additionally, residents are encouraged to prepare an emergency supply kit, which should include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra clothing, blankets, medical supplies, specialty items for disabilities, and other essential items. It is also recommended to keep a full tank of gas if an evacuation seems likely, as gas stations may be closed or unable to pump gas during power outages.

In the case of the Symrise chemical plant explosion in Brunswick, Georgia, residents were instructed to evacuate or shelter in place depending on their proximity to the plant. Local radio and TV stations played a crucial role in disseminating this information, with officials providing updates on evacuation zones and shelter locations.

Therefore, residents of Brunswick, Georgia, and surrounding areas are advised to stay tuned to their local radio and TV stations for timely and accurate information during emergencies. This will ensure they receive official instructions and can take appropriate action to ensure their safety.

Emergency supply kits are recommended for those evacuating

In the event of an evacuation, it is recommended that you have an emergency supply kit, also known as a "Go Bag", ready and easily accessible. This kit should be stored in an easy-to-carry container such as a backpack, duffel bag, or plastic bin, and it should include supplies that will last for several days. Here are some essential items to include in your emergency supply kit:

• Water: It is recommended to have at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation.
• Food: Pack at least a three-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food items.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: This will be crucial for receiving updates and instructions from emergency management officials. If possible, include a NOAA Weather Radio.
• Medications and medical items: Ensure you have at least a seven-day supply of any necessary medications, as well as any other medical supplies you may need, such as glasses, contact lenses, syringes, or hearing aids with extra batteries.
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items: Include items such as soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, personal toiletries, and feminine supplies.
• Copies of important documents: Make sure to have copies of identification, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, proof of address, and any other relevant paperwork.
• Cell phone with chargers: Keep your phone charged and bring extra batteries if possible.
• Extra clothing and sturdy shoes: Pack clothing that is appropriate for the climate, including a jacket, hat, gloves, and closed-toe shoes or sturdy sneakers.
• First aid kit: Assemble a basic first aid kit with items such as bandages, gauze, and over-the-counter medications.
• Maps and emergency contact information: Include a map with at least two evacuation routes, as well as contact information for your family and emergency services.
• Other items: Consider adding items such as a flashlight with extra batteries, a whistle to signal for help, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation, a manual can opener, cash or traveler's checks, sleeping bags or warm blankets, and books or games for children.

Remember to maintain your kit and update it regularly, replacing expired items and re-evaluating your family's needs. In addition to your "Go Bag", it is also a good idea to have a larger emergency kit at home, with supplies that will last for at least two weeks.

Frequently asked questions