Atlanta, GA – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep across Georgia Friday afternoon, with the greatest impacts projected along and south of the I-85 corridor between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Residents from LaGrange to Dublin should prepare for damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, large hail, and the potential for isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in Atlanta, a cold front moving through the region is fueling the threat, with the storm line tracking quickly from northwest to southeast. Severe weather is most likely south of a line from Blairsville to Buchanan, encompassing metro Atlanta, Macon, and surrounding counties.
Cities including Griffin, Thomaston, and Sandersville fall within the highest risk zone. Expect rapidly changing conditions, including frequent cloud-to-ground lightning and hail up to an inch in diameter. Power outages and tree damage are possible, especially in heavily wooded or rural areas. Local emergency managers urge residents to secure loose outdoor items and charge mobile devices in case of outages.
The severe threat is expected to diminish after sunset, though scattered showers may linger into the evening. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts for updates as storms develop. Warnings remain in effect through Friday evening.
