The projected path of Hurricane Florence has shifted southwestward near the coast of South Carolina, putting Georgia on the map for tropical storm force winds and rain.

According to a 5 a.m. update by Bulloch County Public Safety/EMA, the National Hurricane Center’s track has been adjusted southward at days four and five.

Bulloch County Public Safety/EMA said in a Facebook post that the model is a little north of the consensus of other models out of respect for continuity; however, most models, such as the GFS and the European model, show a path south of the NHC track forecast, and additional southward adjustment may be warranted in future advisories.

“If very slow-moving Florence takes the path as reflected in the latest models, it brings our region into play Sunday with winds and rain,” Bulloch County Public Safety/EMA said in a Facebook post. “So, we are not out of the woods yet because there is still a great deal of uncertainty as to days 4 and 5. Some models even suggest it may bounce off the coast of North Carolina and make landfall in South Carolina late Friday into Saturday.”

Bulloch County Public Safety/EMA said this possible shift in direction is due to a very strong high pressure that is blocking Florence from the normal northern path.

According to the NHC, the Bulloch County area has a 20 to 40 percent chance of facing tropical storm force winds of at least 39 mph.

Continue to monitor, prepare for and expect changes in the forecast.

Below are some images as of 5 a.m. that may help visualize what might be expected. Conditions are still subject to change.

University response

In a series of university weather announcements Monday, Jan Southern, strategic communications and marketing vice president, said the university has not made any determinations related to university closures.

“Although there is currently no mandatory evacuation order that would affect our campuses, we understand that this order in South Carolina may impact some of our students, faculty and staff,” Southern said in an email. “The University will work with professors to make appropriate accommodations for students living in the affected areas. Faculty and staff should work with their supervisors to make arrangements as needed.”

The university encourages everyone to monitor weather resources and make preparations as necessary.

The George-Anne will continue to monitor Hurricane Florence’s path and provide updates.

Matthew Enfinger, The George-Anne Editor-in-Chief, gaeditor@georgiasouthern.edu.