3 confirmed deaths in Valdosta due to Hurricane Helene

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - WALB has learned from Mayor Scott James Matheson that there has been three confirmed deaths in Valdosta, due to Hurricane Helene.

Mayor Matheson said, “So it’s three. It’s three for us. And a lot more injury then we sustained than Idalia, a lot more injury for the penetration of the trees to roofs and houses as well.”

This information was shared to WALB during Mayor Matheson and Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff tour of Valdosta, guiding him through various parts of the city impacted by the storm.

Among the areas toured were I-75 exit 18 to Gornto Road, Patterson Street, and Big Nick’s restaurant, where meals were being served to first responders.

They also visited West Street, where Ossoff spoke with citizens about their experiences, and traveled through Downtown Valdosta before stopping at the Second Harvest Food Bank of South Georgia, Inc., where they distributed meals to community members in need.

“I was here after Idalia and it’s clear that the damage to homes are much more widespread. ts going to take a ling time for us to recover from these storm impacts. We know folks are hurting right now. Now we have an extended power outage that may last days more” says Ossoff.

“The purpose of this tour was to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Helene and determine the necessary measures to support our community in recovery... " We’re calling Idalia a blessing.” said Mayor Matheson.

Senator Ossoff shared with WALB that he plans to bring everything he surveyed on Saturday back to Congress to get more state aid.

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