ATLANTA, Ga. – A line of showers and thunderstorms will sweep into north and central Georgia Friday night, marking the arrival of a strong fall cold front. Some storms could strengthen to marginally severe levels, producing damaging wind gusts and brief spin-up tornadoes before daybreak Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, the highest threat window extends from late Friday evening through early Saturday morning, especially along and north of I-20 from Rome to Athens and into the Atlanta metro. Gusts of 40 to 60 mph may accompany stronger storms, with isolated pockets of hail possible. While the severe threat remains low, forecasters caution that fast-moving lines could still down trees or power lines in saturated areas.
The storms will push southeast across central Georgia overnight, reaching Macon and Vidalia before sunrise. Cooler, drier air will follow quickly behind the front Saturday afternoon, ending rain chances but keeping winds breezy through midday. Travelers should monitor alerts and secure lightweight outdoor items ahead of the gusty conditions. Residents are advised to keep phones charged and review severe weather plans in case overnight warnings are issued.
Conditions will stabilize later Saturday, with crisp fall air settling in for the remainder of the weekend and highs returning to the 60s by Sunday afternoon.
