Potential heavy rain, flooding could hit GA over the weekend. What you need to know
Georgia residents can expect a rainy weekend ahead as the 2021 hurricane season begins.
A tropical disturbance has developed in the southern Gulf of Mexico and began its move toward the Gulf Coast, according to the National Weather Service. If the storm continues to strengthen, it will become Tropical Storm Claudette, marking the third storm of the season that nominally ends on Nov. 30.
As the tropical disturbance moves through this weekend, two major threats remain — the potential for heavy, flooding rainfall and the potential for tropical tornadoes. NWS says the exact location of storm’s track will likely have large impacts.
As of Friday morning, the storm is predicted to make landfall on the Louisiana coast.
Here is how the disturbance can affect Alabama and Georgia residents this coming weekend:
Columbus
The Columbus area is looking at a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 9 a.m. Saturday, with showers continuing through the weekend and into next week. By Sunday, some of these storms could produce heavy rainfall, NWS said.
Residents can also expect cooler temperatures throughout the weekend with highs in the middle to upper 80s.
For more information or to check the 7-day weather forecast at any time, visit the NWS website. Real time updates are also available on the NWS Atlanta’s Twitter page.
For more information about getting weather alerts on your mobile phone, visit NWS’s Wireless Emergency Alerts website.
Macon
The Macon and Middle Georgia area is looking at 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m. Saturday with showers continuing through the weekend and into next week. The possibility of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall will increase to 80% Sunday, NWS said.
Residents can also expect cooler temperatures throughout the weekend with highs in the middle to upper 80s.
For more information or to check the 7-day weather forecast at any time, visit the NWS website. Real time updates are also available on the NWS Atlanta’s Twitter page.
For more information about getting weather alerts on your mobile phone, visit NWS’s Wireless Emergency Alerts website.
Phenix City
The Phenix City area will begin the weekend with a slight chance of rain through Friday evening. That chance of rain will increase to 90% Saturday and continue throughout the weekend. Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are likely, NWS said.
Residents can also expect cooler temperatures throughout the weekend with highs in the middle to upper 80s.
For more information or to check the 7-day weather forecast at any time, visit the NWS website. Real time updates are also available on the NWS Birmingham’s Twitter page.
For more information about getting weather alerts on your mobile phone, visit NWS’s Wireless Emergency Alerts website.
What to do in the event of a tornado
There is no guaranteed safety during a tornado, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA). Even the possibility of a tornado must be taken seriously.
To stay safe during a tornado, here are some tips:
- Prepare a plan and an emergency kit,
- Stay aware of weather conditions during thunderstorms,
- Know the best places to shelter both indoors and outdoors,
- Always protect your head
What to do in the event of a flood
Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States, according to the American Red Cross. Knowing the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning can potentially save your life.
To stay safe during a flood, here are some tips:
Listen to local radio or TV stations for the latest weather information and updates.
Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply.
Turn around, don’t drown. If driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
Stay away from floodwaters.
Keep children and pets out of the water.
Be cautious at night when it’s harder to see flood danger.
This story was originally published June 17, 2021 at 12:12 PM.
