The Fort Stewart-Hunter Army airfield senior commander ordered an evacuation of both installations Thursday evening. The evacuation order goes into effect 5 p.m. today.

The mandatory order was issued by Task Force Marne commander Col. Sean C. Bernabe. Only pre-approved stay-behind personnel are authorized to remain on the installations. All other soldiers, Army civilians, family members, and other personnel must evacuate.

The installations will be closed during the evacuation. Only emergency personnel will be allowed access and to remain, said garrison commander Col. Jason A. Wolther.

"This is a mandatory senior commander order; it is not a request-only pre-approved minimal stay behind personnel are authorized," Col. Wolther said. "The senior commander has made this decision with our soldiers, civilians and, families safety as the first priority.  This is an informed decision that is being made by senior leaders and officials throughout our area."

Evacuees will proceed to a safe haven of their choosing within a 500-mile radius of Fort Stewart or Hunter Army Airfield. Soldiers are required to notify their chain of command of their location and provide contact information. All personnel--Soldiers,  Army Civilians, and family members -- should update their locations in the Army Disaster Personnel Accountability and Assessment System at https://adpaas.army.mil. 

Soldiers, Army civilians, and their dependents are authorized evacuation allowances. Overnight lodging, transportation, and other expenses over $75 will be reimbursed with valid receipts for the dates of the evacuation order. Travel vouchers will be filed by all evacuees following the all clear and return to duty.

A hurricane hotline is available to learn when it is safe to return to the area. Call 866-586-3116 after the storm has passed to learn when it is safe to return to the area. The hotline will provide soldiers, families, and Army civilians the latest information.