2:30 p.m., Thursday, September 26th SANDY SPRINGS WEATHER UPDATE: A tropical storm warning remains in effect for Sandy Springs.Below are the latest updates from the National Weather Service briefing: The storm’s wind field is large and impacts are widespread. Winds will reach metro Atlanta around 3 a.m. (38-57 mph, with gusts up to 73 mph possible); The winds will pass us by Friday at 3 p.m. Rainfall amounts so far are between 1.5 and 3 inches, with another 4 to 6 inches (70%) expected. Flood risks are unprecedented and life-threatening flash floods are likely. Do not drive through standing water or flooded areas. Turn around and leave the area. We are at high risk of power outages and fallen trees. Prepare for extensive and extended power outages as the storm will affect a wide area across multiple states. Service restoration may take some time. Patience and preparation are essential. Stay safe and do not touch fallen trees or power lines that may be live. Information about reporting and tracking outages can be found on the Ga. Power website. City staff met again as a team and are continuing preparations for the storm, including: The SS Fire Department will provide citizens with sandbags (sand will not be provided). Residents can visit any fire station or town hall to pick them up starting this afternoon. Each apparatus is manned by two chainsaw operators to clear the roads – everyone is ready and reserves are prepared. The fleet is fully stocked and supplied with fuel. Parks now closed in advance Storm areas include Windsor Meadows, Marsh Creek, Morgan Falls River Park at Morgan Falls, Dam, Hammond Gym, Hammond Activity Building, Overlook Park and Ridgeview Park. Public Works has pre-installed barricades to address expected flooding at both Windsor Meadows and Riverside Dr. The Trowbridge facility is also equipped with external emergency response units for deployment. Because the storm timeline has shifted, we will open the Emergency Operations Center at 9:00 p.m. We have also decided to postpone the opening of the Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival until 5pm tomorrow to allow for later delivery. If power outages affect this, this will of course be communicated. Out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to close City Hall on Friday, except for emergency personnel.