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Severe Thunderstorms Cause Disruptions in Metro Atlanta

Dark storm clouds and lightning over Atlanta

News Summary

Metro Atlanta is currently facing severe thunderstorm warnings as powerful storms sweep through the region. Residents are advised to stay vigilant as several counties, including Troup County, report large hail and damaging winds. The storms have already resulted in transportation delays, power outages affecting thousands of Georgia Power customers, and the potential for urban flooding. As meteorologists continue to monitor the situation, locals are urged to prepare for changing weather conditions in the days ahead.

Severe Thunderstorms Sweep Through Metro Atlanta, Prompting Warnings and Disruptions

Metro Atlanta and surrounding areas are grappling with a powerful line of storms that have unleashed havoc across the region. Several severe thunderstorm warnings were issued throughout Thursday night as residents braced for impact from Mother Nature.

Storm Warnings and Advisory Updates

As the evening progressed, a severe thunderstorm watch has been declared for all of metro Atlanta and northern Georgia, extending until midnight. With intense thunderstorms rolling in, many residents are urged to stay vigilant.

Areas such as Troup County remain under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 11:15 p.m., while reports of large hail have poured in from various north Georgia counties, including hail that has been compared to the size of golf balls in locations like Floyd County and Polk County.

Impact on Local Events and Transportation

The weather has resulted in delays, with the highly anticipated Braves-Phillies game resuming at 11:30 p.m. after adjusting for the storms. Currently, travelers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport may be feeling the aftermath of weather-related disruptions; although a ground stop has been lifted, passengers should brace for departure delays exceeding 75 minutes.

Power Outages and Damaging Winds

In the wake of these storms, thousands of Georgia Power customers are left in the dark, with over 4,000 customers in Fulton County affected, nearly 3,000 in Coweta County, and over 1,800 in Douglas County. Emergency management reports also indicate multiple downed trees, particularly in South Fulton and Douglas County, marking a tense situation for local communities.

Weather Hazards to Watch For

The storms have brought heavy rainfall, intense lightning, and sizable hail, and while most of the threat is anticipated to subside by 11:30 p.m., areas in eastern Georgia could continue to face challenges. Meteorologists forecast damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, posing significant hazards. Additionally, isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out given the climate conditions.

Preparing for the Days Ahead

Residents are urged to remain alert for changing weather conditions, as potential urban flooding may occur due to the saturated ground from previous rainfall. Looking ahead, Friday predicts the possibility of isolated thunderstorms, some of which may reach strong intensity along with threats of frost and freeze conditions developing in northeast Georgia later in the evening.

It’s a reminder for all to stay updated on weather forecasts and to be prepared for potentially damaging conditions as these storms continue to roll through.