Metro Atlanta spared as most severe storms pass to the south

The metro Atlanta area got plenty of rain but was spared from the most severe weather systems Wednesday as the storms rolling across Georgia passed mostly to the south.

Power outages, hail and lightning strikes were reported in some counties in the south metro area, according to Channel 2 Action News. Tornado warnings were issued across South Georgia by the National Weather Service throughout the afternoon.

Severe thunderstorms hit the Southside ahead of the evening drive, dropping more than an inch of rain, according to Channel 2 meteorologist Brian Monahan. More rain is expected overnight and Thursday in areas southwest of the metro, Monahan said, so flooding could become a concern.

A tornado watch was issued for several central Georgia counties, including Troup and Meriwether, according to the NWS. No metro Atlanta counties were included in the watch, which expired at 7 p.m.

ExplorePunishing winds, possible tornadoes inflict damage in South Alabama and South Georgia

We have a lower risk of strong and severe storms tomorrow, but still a level 1 risk across the south side.

I'm tracking the storm threats live now on Channel 2. @wsbtv pic.twitter.com/nYEk1XyoaS
— Brian Monahan, WSB (@BMonahanWSB) June 14, 2023

In Troup County, several vehicle accidents and downed trees were reported shortly before 4 p.m. The sheriff’s office said deputies were working primarily in the northeastern portion of the county, in the Hogansville area.

The Weather Service considered Wednesday’s severe weather threat to be a Level 2 of 5 for most of the state, including metro Atlanta. That threat increased to an enhanced Level 3 for central and west-central Georgia, including Troup, Meriwether and Upson counties. A flood watch also remains in effect for the region through Thursday night, but the severe weather risk for Thursday decreases to a Level 1.

🚨 Moderate Risk for Severe Storms 🚨

Storms are currently ongoing in west central Georgia and another round is expected overnight into tomorrow morning.

Main Risks include:
🍃 Significant Wind Gusts (60-70+ mph)
🧊 Significant Hail (2+ in)
🌪️ Few tornadoes
🌧️ Flooding#gawx pic.twitter.com/ScodyADJZ1
— NWS Atlanta (@NWSAtlanta) June 14, 2023

More rain is expected Thursday, but the risk of severe storms should stay further south. By Friday, things start drying out and temperatures will warm back up to near-90 degrees. It’ll stay hot for the weekend, but scattered storms can’t be ruled out.