The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has reported an estimated impact of $1.28 billion on timber resources due to Hurricane Helene, which recently swept through the state. This assessment, released on October 10, 2024, highlights the extensive damage inflicted upon Georgia's forestlands.

Hurricane Helene traversed approximately 8.9 million acres of forestland across Georgia. The GFC has provided a conservative estimate of the financial repercussions stemming from the storm, acknowledging the potential long-term effects on the state's forestry sector. In response to the devastation, the commission is collaborating with state and federal partners to explore available resources and support for affected landowners.

The impact of Hurricane Helene is particularly notable when compared to Hurricane Idalia, which struck Georgia in 2023. At that time, 6.59 million acres were affected, but only 116,526 acres suffered damage. Of those, 11,069 acres were specifically reported as damaged, leading to timber losses valued at $9.26 million.

As the GFC evaluates the full extent of the destruction, efforts are underway to assess and address the needs of landowners whose timber resources have been severely affected. The significant financial impact of Hurricane Helene serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of Georgia's forestry industry to extreme weather events.