In preparation for severe weather that is expected to affect Georgia late Saturday night through Sunday morning, Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for all of Georgia. The declaration will last until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18.
A significant line of storms is expected to impact the Southeast this weekend. The storms are anticipated to move into Georgia late Saturday night through Sunday morning. The primary threats are tornadoes and damaging winds, with the potential for large hail.
The storm system is expected to enter Georgia late Saturday night, affecting the northern and western portions of the state first, then moving eastward overnight. Supercells and broken-line storms will shift eastward overnight and exit Metro Atlanta by sunrise Sunday.
“This storm will hit at the worst possible time, as people are heading to or already in bed,” Governor Kemp said.
Kemp urges all Georgians to be prepared ahead of time and remain weather-aware.
“Given the uncertainty of this storm and the fact it will move through Georgia overnight, individuals and families should prepare now and make plans to stay safe. Just as we’ve made all necessary preparations on the state level ahead of the system’s arrival, Georgians should get ready now and not wait until the storm is already here,” the governor said.
The State of Emergency declaration allows the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to activate the State Operations Center and deploy resources as needed. Crews will be on alert to respond to damage reports and power outages. The order also prohibits price gouging.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings and review their tornado safety plan. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency’s Ready Georgia website offers resources to help create customized emergency plans and preparedness kits.
Now Habersham is closely monitoring this developing weather situation and its potential impacts on North Georgia. Rely on us for weather updates on NowHabersham.com and weather livestreams on our Facebook page to help keep you weather-aware.
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