Preparing for the 2025 Hurricane Season in South Georgia

As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, running from June 1 to November 30, approaches, South Georgia, including Douglas, braces for what experts predict will be an active season. After Hurricane Helene devastated Douglas in 2024, leaving it one of the hardest-hit areas in Coffee County, preparing now is essential to protect your property and loved ones. Don’t wait until it’s too late—taking action sooner rather than later can help you avoid the pre-season rush and backlogged work.

What to Expect in 2025

The 2025 hurricane season could bring significant risks to South Georgia, according to leading forecasts:

• Storm Predictions: AccuWeather projects 13–18 named storms, 7–10 hurricanes, and 3–5 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher, with winds ≥111 mph). Colorado State University forecasts 17 named storms and 9 hurricanes, with a 72% chance of a named storm and a 37% chance of a hurricane passing within 50 miles of Georgia (source: https://tropical.colostate.edu).

• Regional Risks: While South Georgia, including Douglas, is less likely to see direct hurricane landfalls than coastal areas, inland impacts like heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong winds are major concerns. Storms hitting the Gulf Coast or Southeast can cause flooding and wind damage in areas like Douglas, Valdosta, and Albany.

• Local Impacts in Douglas: In 2024, Hurricane Helene caused widespread tree damage, power outages (only 14% of residents had power by October 5), and flooding in Coffee County. Similar risks are expected in 2025, especially during the peak months of August to October.

• Key Factors: Exceptionally warm Atlantic waters and a weak La Niña transitioning to ENSO-neutral by spring 2025 could fuel rapid storm intensification, increasing the potential for severe impacts, including inland flooding from saturated soils and river systems.

  
  

Why Tree Care is Critical for Storm Preparedness

Falling trees and branches are among the biggest risks during hurricanes and tropical storms, as seen in Douglas during Hurricane Helene. These can damage homes, vehicles, and power lines, leading to costly repairs and safety hazards. Proactive tree care can reduce these risks and ensure your property is storm-ready.

When to Call a Tree Service

Knowing when to call a professional tree service is key to preparing for the hurricane season. Here are the signs and situations that warrant immediate action:

• Visible Damage or Weakness: Cracks, splits, or leaning trees are red flags. Dead or dying branches, especially those overhanging your home, roof, or power lines, need urgent removal to prevent them from falling during a storm.

• Overgrown Trees: Dense canopies or branches too close to structures can catch strong winds, increasing the risk of breakage. Pruning reduces wind resistance and strengthens trees against storm forces.

• Post-Storm Assessment: Even if a tree appears fine after a storm, hidden damage like root upheaval or internal cracks can make it unstable. A professional inspection can catch these issues before the next storm hits.

• Pre-Season Preparation: With the hurricane season starting June 1, now is the time to address hazardous trees. Scheduling early avoids the rush and backlogged work as the season approaches, ensuring your property is ready well in advance.

• Emergency Situations: If a tree is leaning dangerously, has exposed roots, or is partially uprooted, don’t wait—call a tree service immediately to prevent catastrophic damage.

Act Now to Stay Ahead of the Storm

The 2025 hurricane season is just around the corner, and South Georgia residents, especially in Douglas, know the importance of being prepared. Don’t let hazardous trees put your property at risk. By acting now, you can avoid the pre-season rush, secure prompt service, and ensure your trees are safe before storms strike.

Plan Now

Don’t risk your property this hurricane season! Contact New Horizons Tree Service today for a FREE hazard check to identify and address dangerous trees before June 1. Our expert team will assess your property and provide a no-obligation quote to keep your home safe.

Call (912) 310-9000 or visit www.newhorizonstreeservices.com to schedule your free hazard check now. Act sooner rather than later to beat the rush and protect your home!

For real-time hurricane updates, check the National Hurricane Center (www.nhc.noaa.gov) or local forecasts from WJCL, and follow alerts from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency.