Severe Thunderstorms Hit Northern Georgia, Causing Damage and Disruptions

ATLANTA, Ga. (AP) — Severe thunderstorms swept through northern Georgia Saturday, causing damage and prompting multiple warnings in the region. The storms began to impact the area around 4 p.m. eastern time, with the National Weather Service issuing severe thunderstorm warnings for several counties.

Warnings remain in effect for Dawson, Gilmer, Hall, Lumpkin, and Pickens counties until 6:15 p.m. eastern. Other warnings include Carroll, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Heard, Meriwether, and Paulding counties until 6 p.m. eastern.

Damaging winds up to 70 mph were reported, along with the possibility of brief tornadoes and hail. Emergency responders reported that a house in Douglas County may have caught fire due to a lightning strike. Additionally, several trees fell across the area, blocking roads and damaging property.

In Whitfield County, emergency management officials noted that a tree fell onto a vehicle but reported no injuries. Trees were also down in Polk County, particularly at notable addresses such as 1394 Hutchins Mountain Road in Rockmart.

The severe weather prompted a Severe Thunderstorm Watch across metro Atlanta and north Georgia, set to remain in effect until 9 p.m. eastern. Airport officials at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport issued a ground stop for departing flights until 6:15 p.m. due to the storms.

As conditions continued to evolve, meteorologists from Severe Weather Team 2 advised residents to stay informed through live broadcasts and updates while emergency management teams monitored the ongoing situation.

The National Weather Service urged everyone to take precautions and stay indoors during the severe weather. As storm conditions develop, updates will be provided to keep citizens safe.