News Summary
Afternoon thunderstorms in Atlanta have led to significant travel disruptions at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with a ground stop in effect. The FAA reports inbound flights on hold, while outgoing flights face delays of up to 55 minutes. The National Weather Service warns of persisting scattered thunderstorms, heavy rain, and a heat advisory in the area. Travelers are advised to stay updated on evolving weather conditions and take precautions against heat-related health risks.
Atlanta, Georgia – Afternoon thunderstorms on Monday are severely impacting travel at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, prompting a ground stop and significant flight delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a ground stop that is expected to last until at least 3:15 p.m., causing all inbound flights to remain on hold at their originating locations until 4:30 p.m.
FAA officials noted that delays in taxiing have reached between one hour and 15 minutes. Initially, airborne delays for flights approaching Atlanta had not exceeded 15 minutes, but updated data showed the average delay for incoming flights increased to around 35 minutes. Departing flights from Atlanta, particularly those heading to San Francisco International Airport, are experiencing even longer delays averaging about 55 minutes due to weather conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecasted that scattered thunderstorms will persist in the metropolitan area until 9 p.m. Monday. These storms are expected to bring heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, and strong winds, heightening concerns for travelers and residents alike. Severe weather conditions may extend into Sunday, according to the NWS updates.
In addition to thunderstorms, a heat advisory has been issued for parts of east and central Georgia, valid until 8 p.m. Monday. Heat index values in certain areas could soar as high as 108 degrees, particularly impacting counties such as Clarke, Barrow, and Oconee. High temperatures in Atlanta are projected to reach the low 90s, further complicating weather conditions.
The FOX 5 Storm Team has reported that the majority of east-central and central Georgia is under a heat advisory, with forecasted heat index values ranging from 105 to 109 degrees. Scattered thunderstorms are anticipated to develop both in the afternoon and evening, accompanied by a moderate risk of isolated severe storms in North Georgia. The most intense thunderstorm activity is likely to occur between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Travelers and residents are advised to stay informed about changing weather conditions, as the heat advisory and areas under marginal risk for severe storms might expand with future updates from the NWS. Potential hazards from the thunderstorms could include wind gusts ranging from 40 to 60 mph and locally heavy rainfall, which could affect travel and outdoor activities.
Individuals are urged to take precautions, especially if spending time outdoors, due to the high temperatures and heat indices that could lead to medical emergencies. Staying hydrated, avoiding extended exposure to extreme heat, and monitoring local advisories are pivotal for safety.
In summary, Atlanta faces significant travel disruptions linked to afternoon thunderstorms, alongside a pressing heat advisory for parts of the region. As weather conditions evolve, further updates will be crucial for ensuring public safety and travel reliability.
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Additional Resources
- Patch: Flight Delays at ATL Airport Due to Heavy Storms
- Wikipedia: Atlanta
- Fox 5 Atlanta: North Georgia Forecast – High Heat Indexes
- Google Search: Atlanta Weather Forecast
- WSB Radio: Ground Stop Issued at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorms Effects on Travel
- Atlanta News First: Hartsfield-Jackson Airport Under Ground Stop
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Patch: High Winds & Lightning Strike GA During Storms
- Google News: Atlanta Thunderstorms

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
ATLANTA STAFF WRITER The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.