Atlanta, Ga. – Strong thunderstorms are expected to sweep across Georgia Friday afternoon into the evening, bringing the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and frequent lightning to over 70 counties, including metro Atlanta and Macon.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch (No. 347) is in effect until 8 p.m. EDT Friday. The watch area includes Fulton, Bibb, Gwinnett, Muscogee, and many surrounding counties across north and central Georgia. Gusts could exceed 60 mph, with isolated hail reports already emerging west of I-75.
Cities like Atlanta, Athens, and Warner Robins may experience downed trees, power outages, and dangerous road conditions during the evening commute. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor activities, secure loose items, and charge devices in case of outages.
Localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas, especially where heavy rain repeats over short periods. Emergency managers recommend staying indoors during warnings and monitoring NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts.
Storms are expected to exit east Georgia late tonight, but additional warnings may be issued. Updates will follow if the watch is upgraded to a warning or extended.
