Florence is definitely a threat to the southeast coast, but likely won't cause problems for Georgia residents if the hurricane stays on its predicted track.

Forecasters will know more Thursday, but Bulloch County Public Safety Director Ted Wynn said Monday he doesn't expect the southeast region of Georgia to be adversely affected.

That could change, however, he said.

Monday, the Category 4 hurricane's path was predicted to take it straight into Wilmington, North Carolina, where it could increase to a Category 5 storm.

"I feel sorry for North Carolina," he said. "They could get up to a foot of rain and very high winds."

If Florence's path dips westward, Bulloch County and surrounding areas could see some rain and gusty winds, but nothing that would warrant alarm, he said.

Tagging along behind Florence are Isaac and Helene, both still tropical storms that, at current prediction, probably won't be a threat to the United States, Wynn said.

A high pressure system above Florence is what steered her to the north, away from the Georgia coast, he said. Monday reports showed the storm moving west-northwest.

The National Weather Service in Charleston, South Carolina, reported Monday that Tropical Storm Helene is expected to take a northwestern turn, and Isaac showed little change in strength.

While Florence may not bring the problems previous hurricanes did, including Matthew in 2016 and Irma last year, it is hurricane season, and Wynn recommends being prepared.

"Have a safety plan in place, an emergency kit" and a good supply of nonperishable foods, bottled water and other needs in case of a disaster, he said.

Herald reporter Holli Deal Saxon may be reached at (912) 489-9414.