ATLANTA — A strong weather system is expected to approach from the west on Saturday, bringing the potential for severe weather across much of the Southeast, particularly in north and central Georgia. The Storm Prediction Center has expanded the severe risk to include a 30% chance of severe weather, which encompasses most of north Georgia, metro Atlanta, Columbus, and Macon. This is classified as an Enhanced Risk, or Level 3 out of 5.
The forecast indicates the possibility of all severe weather hazards, including damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes. The most likely timing for these conditions is late Saturday afternoon into Sunday, although this may be refined in future updates.
While there is high confidence that severe weather will occur in north and central Georgia over the weekend, uncertainty remains regarding the overall coverage and intensity. If conditions align, there is potential for a significant severe weather outbreak, though confidence in this scenario remains low.
Everyone is advised to stay informed and prepared for possible severe weather impacts, including damage from severe winds, hail, and tornadoes. Review your severe weather safety plan. With any severe weather event, be ready to act immediately! Have multiple, reliable ways to receive severe weather alerts, NEVER, ever, ever rely on a outdoor siren. Every Middle Georgia home and business needs a NOAA Weather Radio (the most popular model is the Midland WR-120, which is sold in most local big box retailers). The other way is your phonebe sure emergency alerts are enabled (look under settings, and notifications), and install the free WGXA SKYWATCH Weather app.
Know the safe place in your house, and in that safe place have helmets for everyone. Bicycle helmets and batting helmets work well. We also recommend portable air horns and hard soled shoes for everyone. If you live in an apartment complex, you can’t be above the first level. Shelter with a friend on the ground level, or ask management if they can open the clubhouse during a tornado warning.
If you live in a mobile home, you cannot stay there during a tornado warning, they offer little to know protection from severe storms. Know the location of the nearest shelter, or business that is open 24/7. Know how to get there quickly…