A severe weather outbreak is expected to sweep across the southeastern United States Sunday into early Monday. The National Weather Service says it has the potential to be among the top five most severe storms in the last ten years. Severe weather is expected to impact the entire region, including all of North and Central Georgia.
Forecasters warn the system is likely to produce damaging winds, tornadoes, heavy rain, potential flooding, and significant hail. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency has placed all emergency support functions on alert for possible activation.
White County Emergency Management Agency Director David Murphy says local EMAs are preparing for a “significant” weather outbreak.
A developing situation
The weather system is expected to approach northern Georgia Sunday afternoon and extend into early Monday. State emergency management officials say there is growing confidence that the storm system will bring damaging winds and tornadoes to the region.
“The weather is expected to hit up after midnight tomorrow,” says Habersham County Emergency Management Director Lynn Smith. “They are predicting tornadoes and have asked everyone to shelter in place.” The weather models are still changing and Smith asks people “stay at home and continue to watch the weather for continuing changes.”
Local emergency officials also are closely monitoring the weather.
Habersham County Emergency Services Director Chad Black says the county will “add additional personnel” around 8 p.m. “if the forecast remains as it is now.” He says they may alter that plan if the forecast changes to a lower risk.
“Our teams are on alert for any potential weather on Sunday evening,” says Murphy. “All agencies are placing personnel on-call or calling in extra personnel.”
EMA directors are instructing their first responders to remain mindful of COVID-19 guidelines when responding to potential weather emergencies.
READ Prepare now for possible deadly storms Sunday
Plan ahead. Prepare now.
People should plan ahead for severe weather, such as knowing the safest place to be in their home. Basements, storm cellars, interior rooms, hallways, and rooms with pipe-reinforced walls such as bathrooms are among the safest.
“Stay away from windows and areas where large trees are located around your house or residence,” cautions Habersham County Emergency Services Director Chad Black. “Have a weather radio and monitor conditions, and if you hear the warning sirens go off, do not wait or go look to see if you can see anything, go immediately to the safe location you have identified.”
Steer clear of windows but, if you can’t, use thick padding such as mattresses and blankets to protect yourself and others against broken glass and flying debris.
“Put some water and other items you may need in the safe location ahead of time,” says Black. “Make sure your cell phones are fully charged, flashlights, maybe even a generator, and any other items you may feel could help in the event you are a victim of severe weather.”
Other precautions
In the event of severe weather, be extra cautious when traveling and walking outside. Downed power lines could be hidden by debris but may still be hot and could electrocute anyone who comes into contact with them.
Ready.gov is an excellent online resource to help people properly prepare for severe weather situations
Being in the midst of a pandemic complicates things when it comes to sheltering in place with others. The American Meteorological Society (AMS) advises “Do not let the virus prevent you from seeking refuge from a tornado.”
The group suggested certain guidelines for the public to follow.
If sheltering in place with others, be sure to follow CDC guidelines for physical distancing and disease prevention as much as possible.
Now Habersham is closely following the weather and will continue to provide updates as needed throughout this expected severe weather event.
NH WEATHER UPDATES
This article has been updated to include additional information
