Alapaha, Georgia – Strong thunderstorms continued to barrel across parts of south-central Georgia late Sunday afternoon, keeping the risk of damaging winds and hail firmly in place for several rural communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning remains in effect until 6:15 p.m. for southeastern Irwin County, northeastern Berrien County, and southeastern Ben Hill County. At mid-evening, a line of severe storms stretched from near Pridgen to near Sparks, racing east at nearly 50 mph with wind gusts capable of reaching 60 mph and producing penny-size hail.
Communities including Alapaha, Glory, Wray, Gladys, Osierfield, and Red Bluff remain in the direct path of the strongest storms. Officials warn that winds of this strength can damage roofs and siding, snap tree limbs, and lead to isolated power outages. Travel along local highways and farm-to-market roads may become hazardous as sudden gusts and heavy rain reduce visibility.
Residents are urged to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and remain indoors until storms pass. Outdoor items should be secured quickly, and mobile home residents are advised to seek more substantial shelter.
The storm line is expected to continue east through the early evening. Warnings remain active through 6:15 p.m., and additional statements may be issued if storms intensify before exiting the area.
