Columbus, GA – Residents across parts of west central Georgia are under a Tornado Watch Saturday afternoon, as strong storms continue moving through the region with the potential to produce damaging winds and isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, Tornado Watch 3 remains in effect until 2 p.m. EST Saturday, January 10, for four Georgia counties: Chattahoochee, Harris, Meriwether, and Muscogee.
The watch area includes the cities of Columbus, Fort Benning, Manchester, and Pine Mountain, placing both residential neighborhoods and major travel corridors at risk as storms develop and move east.
Forecasters say conditions are favorable for rotating thunderstorms, which could quickly intensify with little warning. While a tornado watch does not mean a tornado is currently occurring, it signals that tornadoes are possible and residents should be prepared to act if a warning is issued.
Emergency officials recommend residents review safety plans now, identify safe shelter locations, and remain alert to weather alerts throughout the afternoon. Mobile homes and manufactured housing residents are especially encouraged to have a nearby sturdy shelter option.
Drivers are also urged to use caution, as storms may bring heavy rain, reduced visibility, and sudden wind gusts, particularly along major routes in and around Columbus and Fort Benning.
The National Weather Service advises monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, local media, or trusted weather apps for real-time updates. If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a small, interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows.
Storm activity is expected to shift east later this afternoon, but officials stress that conditions can change rapidly.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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