Ping-pong to half-dollar-size hail pounded parts of Pickens County late Thursday, coating yards and turning roads slick in Jasper, Talking Rock and Hinton. The sudden burst of ice left vehicles dented and briefly shut down Highway 136 east of Jasper while emergency crews cleared thick hail and worked several crash scenes. County emergency officials said there were no reported injuries.
A severe thunderstorm warning for Pickens and nearby north Georgia counties was issued Thursday evening as the line of storms pushed across the mountains. Radar and spotter reports showed coin-size hail and strong gusts capable of causing damage. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the warning went out just after 7:40 p.m. and was allowed to expire around 8:30 p.m.
Radar and Wind Reports
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City reported that radar-indicated hail and damaging winds were the main threats from the fast-moving line of storms. Forecasters highlighted an environment supportive of hail large enough to dent cars and snap small branches.
Road Closures and Vehicle Damage
Pickens County Emergency Management told FOX 5 Atlanta that Highway 136 east of Jasper was temporarily shut down after heavy hail made stretches of the road impassable and responders were called to multiple collisions. Residents and first responders reported yards and roadside areas covered in hail like a layer of snow, along with several vehicles left with dents and other damage.
Why Hail This Big Matters
Hailstones ranging from quarter to half-dollar size, with scattered reports of ping-pong-sized ice, can chew up vehicle bodywork, siding and roofing in a matter of minutes, even when a storm passes quickly. Per the National Weather Service, residents are encouraged to report hail and wind damage through local storm-report tools or by calling 1-866-763-4466 so forecasters can verify storm impacts…