Hurricane Helene, striking Georgia at the end of September, resulted in significant losses to the state's economy, particularly affecting the agricultural sector. The University of Georgia, in collaboration with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp's office, the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and the Georgia Forestry Commission, conducted a preliminary analysis estimating the economic impact on Georgia's agriculture and timber industries.
This analysis highlighted substantial damages across various crops, with vegetables suffering the most. Specifically, the hurricane led to the loss of up to 30% of vegetables, including zucchini and squash. The nursery industry also faced considerable damage to irrigation systems, infrastructure, and greenhouses. Production of blueberries, citrus, peanuts, and pecans also sustained major damage, further compounding the toll on the state's agricultural output.
The overall estimated cost to Georgia's economy from agricultural and timber losses is at least $5.5 billion, encompassing decreased revenue from crop production, losses to workers and businesses, and the expenses of recovery efforts.
Source: Savannah Now