News Summary

Augusta has announced the completion of its debris removal efforts under FEMA after Hurricane Helene. Approximately 3.44 million tons of storm debris have been cleared from public areas. While curbside collection has ended, recovery efforts will continue, including stump removals and site restoration. The city is still addressing challenges from the storm, including ongoing power outages and water advisories, while local officials seek to manage recovery and ensure federal support.

Augusta Reaches Milestone in Storm Recovery Efforts Following Hurricane Helene

The city of Augusta has officially concluded the coordinated debris removal phase under FEMA in response to Hurricane Helene. This announcement was made on Monday, June 30. During this phase, teams have removed approximately 3.44 million tons of storm-related debris from public roadways, rights-of-way, and other affected locations, categorized under FEMA Categories A (vegetative debris) and B (construction and demolition debris).

Although the curbside debris collection phase has ended, ongoing recovery efforts will continue, including stump removals and site restoration. Residents are encouraged to contact the Augusta Landfill at 706-592-3200 for options regarding debris disposal and accepted materials. For those facing storm-related challenges, assistance is available at greateraugustaltrc.org.

Governor Brian Kemp visited Augusta on Monday to discuss recovery efforts with local officials. In his remarks, he noted the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, likening it to a devastating tornado that has led to at least 25 fatalities in Georgia. The situation remains critical, particularly as over 1.3 million homes and businesses were without power following the storm, with more than half of those affected having their power restored by the morning of the announcement.

Approximately 500 individuals are currently housed in temporary shelters across the state, while more than 350 clean water distribution sites have been established to assist residents. A boil water advisory remains in effect, although water quality has improved significantly in Richmond County. To support the recovery, Comcast has pledged $100,000 to the United Way CSRA.

Mayor Garnett Johnson underscored the importance of accurately accounting for debris in order to ensure federal reimbursement. Additionally, the curfew in Richmond County has been adjusted to 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. to reflect improvements in power and traffic light functionality.

The Augusta Regional Airport has resumed regular service following the storm, and efforts to restore electric service are ongoing with more than 15,000 utility workers from Georgia Power and surrounding states deployed to assist with the restoration process. As of Monday, there were still 613,000 reported power outages statewide, although efforts to restore services are actively underway.

The Georgia National Guard is also aiding disaster relief operations, providing essential supplies and conducting rescue missions. Governor Kemp has been in communication with President Biden regarding disaster relief assistance, indicating state-level recognition of the extensive impact of the hurricane.

As the situation continues to evolve, recovery efforts within Augusta and surrounding areas are expected to require ongoing community support and federal assistance. Local officials are urging residents to stay informed and reach out for help as necessary.

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Additional Resources

• Augusta Chronicle: Storm Debris Collected
• WRDW: Augusta Cleanup Officially Done
• WJBF: Updates on Augusta Recovery Efforts
• Georgia Recorder: Kemp Tours Hurricane Damage
• Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene (2025)