Categories: Breaking NewsDisastersGovernment NewsNews

Severe Storms Cause Damage and Power Outages in Atlanta

Damage caused by severe storms in Metro Atlanta

News Summary

Metro Atlanta experienced severe storms that resulted in widespread damage and power outages. The storms brought strong winds and hail, particularly affecting southern areas like Hapeville. Emergency crews worked through the aftermath, addressing downed trees, blocked roads, and significant property damage, including damaged homes and vehicles. Local schools canceled classes due to outages, while radar reported hail sizes up to three inches. As communities work to recover, the forecast indicates a return to clearer conditions soon.

Severe Storms Bring Widespread Damage and Power Outages Across Metro Atlanta

Metro Atlanta was rocked by a line of severe storms on Thursday night, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The storms, marked by fierce winds and hail, particularly affected areas to the south of the city.

Impact on Residents

As dawn broke on Friday, crews were deployed across the region to tackle the aftermath of the storm. Downed trees and widespread power outages prompted urgent cleanup efforts. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the scene was one of chaos.

In Hapeville, Fulton County, residents were left coping with significant damage. A number of local homeowners faced extensive cleanup tasks, including one resident who was caught off guard when a tree crashed onto power lines on Myrtle Street.

Property Damage Reports

Homes in Hapeville were not spared, with one tree severely damaging the roof and siding of a house. In another instance, a massive tree landed on two vehicles—a car and a truck—but miraculously, the occupants were unharmed.

Pike County Emergency Management officials reported more than 25 fallen trees blocking roadways and numerous power outages. Crews also discovered a car trapped beneath a fallen tree and live power lines, adding an extra layer of danger to the situation.

School Closures and Weather Alerts

Friday saw classes canceled at Fannin County Schools due to both blocked routes and an ongoing power outage affecting East Fannin Elementary School. Radar readings showed that hail in parts of Fayette County reached a staggering three inches in size, alarming locals.

A weather alert momentarily grounded operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, impacting plans for many, including attendees at a Braves game. In Douglas County, particularly in Douglasville, significant damage unfolded as multiple trees fell, with one household suffering extensive damage to their roof and siding.

Widespread Weather Effects

Hail was also reported in Cobb, Cherokee, and Floyd counties, with sizes varying from quarters to tennis balls. The strong, straight-line winds significantly contributed to downed trees and power lines, creating hazardous conditions across the area.

While rainfall totals were mostly between half an inch and an inch, some locations may experience even higher amounts once final figures are tallied. As a result of the severe weather, many schools in Fannin County called off classes.

Looking Ahead

Friday’s weather forecast indicated a slight chance of additional showers, but it was expected that clearer and drier conditions would return by Saturday. Overnight temperatures were set to drop into the 50s, accompanied by wind chills that could make it feel even colder.

The past 11 days have seen a spate of severe weather outbreaks across North Georgia, including confirmed tornadoes. The devastation from recent storms has taken a heavy toll on local communities, damaging homes and critical infrastructure.