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Severe Storms in Atlanta Result in Fatalities and Power Outages

Emergency responders clearing debris from a fallen tree in Atlanta after severe storms

News Summary

A severe storm swept through metro Atlanta, claiming one life and leaving over 150,000 customers without power. Governor Brian Kemp reported that Jason Keith Payne, 56, died when a tree fell on his vehicle. First Alert Weather Days have been issued as more storms loom, prompting multiple road closures and airport ground stops. Emergency responders are on the scene to clear debris and restore power, with local officials cautioning residents about ongoing severe weather risks.

Atlanta, Georgia – Severe storms that struck the metro Atlanta area have resulted in one fatality and left over 150,000 customers without power. According to Governor Brian Kemp, the deceased has been identified as 56-year-old Jason Keith Payne, who tragically died when a tree fell onto his vehicle in Banks County. The storm produced strong winds, significantly impacting the region with downed trees and widespread power outages.

In response to the dangerous weather conditions, Sunday and Monday have been designated as First Alert Weather Days, with predictions for isolated storms on Sunday afternoon. More extensive storms are expected to develop on Monday afternoon and into the evening, raising concerns for potential severe weather risks.

The Severe Prediction Center has assessed the severe weather threat level for North Georgia at a level 2 out of 5. Multiple counties, including Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall, and Jackson, were under severe thunderstorm warnings that were issued throughout the evening as the storms intensified.

As a result of the severe weather, there have been numerous road closures across the affected areas, primarily due to fallen trees and downed power lines. Notable closures include:

Hartwell Police Department reported that College Avenue, located between Johnson Street and Savannah Street, is impassable.
Over 20 roads in Hall County remain blocked by downed trees.
Houze Road in Roswell is closed due to a tree that has fallen across the road.
Bethlehem Road in Polk County is blocked as well, further complicating travel in the region.

Additionally, a ground stop was issued at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport until 6:15 p.m. as safety precautions due to the storms. Power outage reports as of 6:45 p.m. indicate that the number of outages continues to rise, affecting over 150,000 customers in metro Atlanta and surrounding areas.

Emergency responders are actively engaged in efforts to clear roads and restore power across the impacted regions. Areas reporting significant wind damage include Cherokee, Pickens, and Polk counties, where many trees have been reported down. As this situation unfolds, the Hartwell Police Department and the Georgia Department of Public Safety are closely monitoring the conditions and responding as needed.

This incident remains under investigation, particularly concerning the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate fatality and other storm-related incidents. With weather forecasts predicting continued instability, residents are urged to stay informed and exercise caution as cleanup and recovery efforts progress.

As the community deals with the aftermath of these severe storms, the long-term impacts on infrastructure, power restoration timelines, and safety measures are anticipated ongoing discussions among local officials and emergency management teams.