News Summary
The metro Atlanta area is preparing for severe storms this weekend, with warnings issued for multiple counties. Late Friday night into Saturday morning is expected to bring damaging winds, hail, and the potential for heavy rain. Residents are advised to stay indoors during storms and to remain vigilant for changing weather conditions. Despite minimal tornado risk, safety precautions are essential as the FOX 5 Storm Team monitors the developing situation.
Atlanta – The metro Atlanta area is bracing for severe storms this weekend, with hazardous weather expected to impact outdoor plans as the first full weekend of June approaches. A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Bartow and Gordon counties, in effect until 9:45 p.m., and another warning for Bartow, Floyd, and Gordon counties has been issued until 9:30 p.m.
Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate late Friday night into early Saturday morning, with rain anticipated to start in North Georgia as early as 6 p.m. on Friday. As the weekend unfolds, the FOX 5 Atlanta Storm Team is monitoring two weather systems: one currently over western Kentucky that is likely to move into the area, and another system positioned west of the Mississippi River, both of which pose a risk of severe weather.
Temperatures in the region are projected to reach upper 80s to low 90s on Friday. However, the calm weather will give way to an unstable atmospheric environment that could lead to thunderstorm development overnight. Storms are expected to develop late Friday and peak between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday, presenting a Level 2 risk for severe weather across much of North Georgia.
Potential Hazards and Safety Precautions
Residents should prepare for damaging winds that could exceed 60 miles per hour, as well as hail potentially reaching one inch in diameter. Although the possibility of tornadoes is low, authorities will continue to monitor storm developments, particularly in northwest Georgia and the northeastern mountain regions, where conditions may be more favorable for severe weather.
Sunday’s forecast indicates the potential for scattered storms primarily in the afternoon and evening. As the weekend progresses, rain chances are expected to gradually decline heading into early next week. However, the storms forecasted for Saturday could bring heavy rain, which may lead to downed trees and power lines and cause minor flooding in some areas.
Safety precautions are strongly advised during the impending storms. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors whenever storms are present and use caution when driving in heavy rain due to decreased visibility and slippery roads. Keeping aware of weather conditions is essential throughout the weekend, as significant weather fluctuations may continue.
Background Context and Weather Developments
As of this year, Georgia has already experienced a total of 36 tornadoes, primarily categorized as EF0; the most damaging was classified as EF2, resulting in injuries. Challenges in predicting weather conditions have led to varying risk categories established by the National Weather Service, underlining the need for ongoing monitoring.
This weekend’s storms could develop into a Mesoscale Convective System (MCS) on Saturday afternoon, which would increase the risk of severe conditions, particularly with isolated areas facing intense wind. Severe Weather Team 2 will offer continuous updates through the evening, ensuring residents have timely information on evolving weather situations.
Local news apps and channels are vital resources for live weather updates, allowing residents to stay informed and adjust their plans as necessary. Given the potential for severe weather, it’s imperative for those planning outdoor activities to remain vigilant and prepared for changing conditions throughout the weekend.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: Live Updates on Severe Storms
- Google Search: Severe Storms North Georgia
- FOX 5 Atlanta: Weather Alert on Strong Storms
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Forecast
- AJC: Strong Windy Storms Expected
- WSB Radio: Outdoor Plans and Severe Storms
- WSB TV: Threat of Strong Severe Storms
- Google News: Severe Weather Updates
