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Severe Weather Alert as Atlanta Prepares for Stormy Week

News Summary

Atlanta is gearing up for a week of severe weather with forecasts predicting significant moisture, increasing rain, and potential thunderstorms. A 60% chance of showers is expected on Wednesday, with storm risks persisting through the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Level 2 slight risk for severe weather, prompting caution among residents. Notable risks include damaging winds, isolated hail, and the possibility of tornadoes, particularly following a recent EF-2 tornado incident. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as the weather unfolds.

Atlanta, Georgia is preparing for a week of severe weather, as a low-pressure system moves northeast from the East Coast. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that significant moisture will arrive in Georgia on Wednesday and Thursday, leading to increased rain and the possibility of severe thunderstorms.

According to meteorologist Lindsay Marlow, metro Atlanta can expect a surge in rain after 1 p.m. on Wednesday, with the most substantial precipitation likely in the afternoon and evening. While no severe weather is anticipated on Wednesday, some showers may develop into thunderstorms. By nightfall, conditions are expected to clear.

The forecast for Wednesday indicates a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, with temperatures reaching a high near 82°F and east winds around 10 mph. The night will see a continued chance of rain, likely tapering off before 2 a.m., with a low around 67°F.

As the week progresses, daily storms are expected to continue through at least Tuesday. The NWS has issued a Level 2 out of 5 slight risk for severe weather over the upcoming weekend, with the highest probability for severe storms occurring from Friday into Saturday. This comes with predictions of potential damaging wind gusts and isolated large hail, particularly depending on storm developments in northwest Georgia.

The weekend forecast shows storms beginning Friday afternoon with a 50% chance of rain, increasing to a 70% chance on Saturday. Rainfall totals could reach between half an inch to one inch, which could further compromise already saturated soil due to previous rainfalls. Currently, ground stops have also been implemented at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport due to adverse weather conditions.

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for multiple counties in the metro Atlanta area, set to last until 8 p.m. Residents are urged to remain weather-aware and familiarize themselves with tornado safety protocols, particularly given the anticipated risk of tornadoes this week. A recent EF-2 tornado that struck Georgia has underscored the state’s vulnerability to such severe weather phenomena, resulting in injuries, including that of actor Tray Chaney and his son.

This pattern of severe weather is typical for Georgia in May, which is historically part of the spring severe season that lasts from March to May, with the potential to extend into June. The NWS will continue to provide updates on weather conditions through various platforms, ensuring the public stays informed about changes in the forecast and any emerging severe weather threats.

Overall, Georgia is bracing for a tumultuous week ahead, and residents are encouraged to stay vigilant regarding weather updates and safety measures as the conditions unfold.