Today, a cold front is pushing heavy rain and thunderstorms through North Georgia, and some of these storms could be strong to severe. The Metro Atlanta area is in line for some dangerous weather, including the possibility of high winds, large hail, and even brief tornadoes. The storm system has already moved through Mississippi and Alabama and is expected to hit Georgia later this morning, continuing into the afternoon.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, most of Georgia is now in an ENHANCED RISK zone for severe storms, which means there is a 3 out of 5 chance of experiencing dangerous weather. With this elevated risk, residents of Metro Atlanta and North Georgia need to be prepared for the severe weather that is likely to hit today.
What to Expect Today
The cold front is causing severe weather, and it is moving quickly. The heaviest storms will hit the Metro Atlanta area between 11 AM and 4 PM today. These storms will bring heavy rain, strong winds, and the possibility of hail. Although tornadoes are not expected to be widespread, isolated tornadoes are still a possibility, so it is important to stay alert and monitor updates throughout the day.
The storms are already impacting parts of Mississippi and Alabama, and by the time they reach Georgia, they will bring intense weather. The rain will start moving into the Metro area by late morning and continue into the afternoon. The timing of the storms could vary, but it’s a good idea to be prepared for rough weather from late morning until mid-afternoon.
Severe Storm Risk: What You Need to Know
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of Georgia in an ENHANCED RISK zone for severe storms, which means there is a higher chance of severe weather compared to normal. The storm risks for today include:
- Strong Winds: Gusts could reach up to 60+ mph, which is strong enough to damage trees, power lines, and buildings. Winds like these can also lead to power outages in the area, so be sure to prepare for the possibility of losing electricity.
- Large Hail: Hailstones could be as large as 1 inch or more in diameter. Large hail can damage cars, roofs, windows, and outdoor plants. If possible, park your car in a garage or under a cover to protect it from the hail.
- Tornadoes: While tornadoes are not expected to be widespread, the possibility of isolated, brief tornadoes remains. These tornadoes may form quickly and can be difficult to predict, which makes it even more important to stay alert and be ready to take shelter if necessary.
Timeline for Metro Atlanta
The storm system will push through Metro Atlanta from late morning to early afternoon. You can track the storms using interactive radar tools that show their path and intensity. The storms are expected to be intense but will likely move through quickly, so the heaviest impacts will be concentrated within a few hours.
You should expect rain to start around 11 AM and continue until 4 PM. The heaviest rainfall will likely occur during the midday hours, so prepare for the possibility of wet roads and reduced visibility if you need to be out during that time.
The Futurecast radar provides a detailed look at the movement of the storms and can help you track exactly when the storms will impact your area. Keep a close eye on this radar and make sure you’re aware of any weather alerts or warnings issued throughout the day.
Preparing for the Storms
Here are a few things you can do to stay safe as severe storms approach:
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from local news stations and weather apps. Make sure your phone is charged so you can receive weather alerts if there are any warnings in your area.
- Have an Emergency Plan: If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, make sure you know where the safest place in your home is. Ideally, this should be a basement or a small, windowless room in the center of your home. If you’re at work or school, know the emergency plan and follow instructions from officials.
- Secure Outdoor Objects: High winds could blow outdoor furniture, trash cans, and other items around. Make sure to bring them inside or secure them to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
- Prepare for Power Outages: With the strong winds expected, there is a chance that power lines could be knocked down. Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and any necessary supplies on hand in case of a power outage. It’s also a good idea to keep your phone charged in case you need to reach out to family or friends.
- Drive Safely: If you need to drive during the storms, be cautious. Rain and strong winds can make roads slippery, and visibility may be reduced. Avoid driving in heavy rain and seek shelter if conditions worsen.
Impact on Metro Atlanta
While the storms will move through quickly, they will still cause significant disruptions. High winds could lead to falling trees and power outages, especially in areas with extensive tree coverage. Hail may damage vehicles and property, and heavy rain could lead to localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Residents should take extra precautions if they are planning to be outside during the storms. If a tornado warning is issued, it’s essential to take shelter immediately. Tornadoes can form rapidly, and there may not be much time to react.
What to Do During a Tornado Warning
If a tornado warning is issued in your area, seek shelter in the safest place possible. This means moving to a basement or an interior room, away from windows. If you are in a mobile home or vehicle, leave immediately and seek a sturdy building in which to take shelter.
Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle. Instead, get out of the car and find the nearest safe building or shelter. If you are caught outside and cannot find shelter, lie flat in a ditch or low area and cover your head.
Conclusion
The severe storms expected today in Metro Atlanta and North Georgia are a reminder of how important it is to stay informed and be prepared. By staying updated with the latest weather reports, having an emergency plan, and taking precautions to protect yourself and your property, you can stay safe during these storms. While the weather is expected to be intense, it will also be brief, so following these safety tips will help you stay safe throughout the day.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
