Tropical Storm Nate could bring down more trees in north Georgia

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency is keeping a close eye on the approach of Tropical Storm Nate, but they don’t think the storm poses as big a threat to the state as Hurricane Irma did.

The storm is projected to come through Northwest Georgia, a part of the state left almost untouched after Irma came through three weeks ago.

"GEMA is actively monitoring for any potential impacts to Georgia and has staff prepared to respond as needed,” said GEMA Spokesperson Catherine Howden.

Certified Arborist John Harper of Serious Tree Service said his crews have been working around the clock since Irma hit North Georgia three weeks ago. He admits his crews are tired but are ready to respond if needed.

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“It started the Saturday and Sunday, two days before Irma," Harper said. “And then when Monday came, around 2:15, around the clock. You might as well say from the start of Irma until yesterday and today. We’re that busy.”

Harper also warned that many trees, especially oaks, were weakened by Irma’s high winds. He thinks those trees could fall because of Nate.

“We know there were trees left behind from Irma, and they’re going to fall,” Harper said. “If the winds are over 20 mph to 30 mph sustained for a couple of days along with moisture, rain? We’ve got problems.”

Cox Media Group