The severe thunderstorm that swept through late Tuesday knocked down power lines and trees like this one near a home on Pear Valley Drive in Clarkesville. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)
Thousands of homes and businesses were left without electricity overnight as severe storms knocked out power across North Georgia.
The storm system swept through around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday dropping heavy rain on some areas and packing wind gusts of up to 60 mph. It blew down trees and power lines. Around midnight, Habersham EMC reported approximately 3,500 meters were out in Habersham, Hall, Lumpkin, Rabun, and White counties. By Wednesday afternoon, HEMC crews had restored power to all but a handful of those customers.
Storm sparks fire, leaves trail of damage in White County
Thousands of Georgia Power customers were also affected by the storm. A handful of those customers were in Clarkesville where a tree fell near a house on Pear Valley Drive. Initial reports indicated the occupants were trapped inside because power lines were tangled inside the fallen tree.
Electric company officials urge, if you see a downed power line avoid the area, treat it as if it is live, and report it immediately.
To report outages and hazards to HEMC call 706-754-2114, 706-865-4362, or 800-640-6812.
To report a downed power line or dangerous conditions to Georgia Power call 1-888-891-0938. You may also report Georgia Power outages online through the company’s website.
Last update 9/14/19@3pm
