Severe Weather Alert: North Georgia Faces Storms, Flash Flooding This Weekend
ATLANTA, Ga. — North Georgia is bracing for severe weather this weekend as the FOX 5 Storm Team predicts thunderstorms and potential flash flooding beginning Saturday night and continuing through Sunday morning. A Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather has been issued, particularly for the early hours of Sunday.
The National Weather Service reports that a vigorous line of storms will arrive before dawn on Sunday, bringing with it an estimated half-inch to an inch of rainfall across much of the region. The area of greatest concern is the far western parts of the state, which is likely to experience damaging wind gusts of up to 60 mph, and while tornadoes are not the primary threat, there remains a low chance for brief tornado activity.
The peak time for severe weather is set between 2 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Sunday, with significant rain accumulation exacerbating the current risk of flash flooding. As the ground is already saturated from previous rains, the additional rainfall could lead to swollen rivers and increase the possibility of river flooding in the following days, particularly along and north of Interstate 85.
The threat level for flash flooding during this time is rated as Slight Risk (Level 2 of 4), signaling high alert for residents in low-lying areas and along creeks and streams. The National Weather Service reminds residents that flash flooding can occur rapidly and encourages caution when traveling during this period, stating, “Turn around, don’t drown.”
As the overnight storms approach, there are rising concerns about nocturnal tornadoes, which are particularly dangerous due to limited visibility. Additionally, saturated soil conditions could lead to downed trees and power lines resulting in potential power outages in affected areas.
With the combination of the predicted rain and winds, local authorities are advising residents to take precautions in preparation for power outages and flooding, especially in vulnerable spots. Officials report they have set up resources, including sandbags, in areas historically affected by flooding.
This week, widespread and intense thunderstorms affected broader regions of the Southeast, with many areas already grappling with flash floods. Locations in northern Tennessee and western Kentucky were under severe flood alerts due to a combination of heavy rain and saturated grounds.
In neighboring states, assessments show that some areas are at heightened risk of encountering life-threatening flash floods due to ongoing and heavy rainfall patterns. Officials across the Southeast are urging residents to remain vigilant as the weather system develops.
The impending storm has raised concerns beyond immediate flooding as parts of the Upper Midwest and New England face winter weather warnings that could bring significant snowfall totals, affecting travel in those regions as well.
As North Georgia prepares for the weather, the FOX 5 Storm Team will continue to provide updates and forecasts as conditions evolve.
