Cobb County prepares roads as Hurricane Isaias approaches North Georgia – FOX 5 Atlanta

Cobb County prepares roads as Hurricane Isaias approaches North Georgia  FOX 5 Atlanta

Government agencies across metro Atlanta are monitoring the movement of Hurricane Isaias as storm preparations get underway. Cobb County Department of Transportation crews are clearing storm drains and preparing heavy tree-removal equipment ahead of potential flooding and high winds from Tropical Storm Isaias. COBB COUNTY, Ga. – Government agencies across metro Atlanta are monitoring the movement of Hurricane Isaias as storm preparations get underway. Isaias is currently a Category 2 hurricane with 100 mph sustained winds as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico toward an expected Friday night landfall. Cobb County Department of Transportation crews have been inspecting culverts and clearing trash from drainage systems to prevent potential flooding. Workers are checking equipment, including chainsaws and response trucks, to handle strong winds and heavy rainfall expected from Isaias.

"Opening up culverts making sure everything is going to be flowing like it should," said Dallas Cain of Cobb County DOT. Heavy winds can down trees and block key travel lanes, leaving drivers stranded or delayed during severe weather. Cobb County DOT is utilizing specialized equipment that can lift entire fallen trees in a single swing to keep roadways open. "This is going to be able to pick up a tree with one swing, swinging it 180 degrees over, set it on the shoulder so that we can open the lanes