Strong winds and brief tornadoes. Here’s what’s in store for Georgia Thursday afternoon

Chelsea Madden

Another day, another severe weather forecast for parts of Georgia.

Severe weather is expected to travel across the Peach State this afternoon, beginning around 2 or 3 p.m. and lingering until the early night hours (8 p.m.).

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Peachtree City said “gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.”

The NWS has forecasted severe weather today for Macon and Columbus.
The NWS has forecasted severe weather today for Macon and Columbus.

There is currently a wind advisory for much of the state, including Macon and Columbus, until 11 p.m. Many areas are predicted to have damaging winds, some may climb up to 60 mph.

There is also a tornado watch in effect until 7 p.m. for Monroe County (Forsyth) and Muscogee County (Columbus).

Other possible threats include heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, hail (up to 1 inch) and brief tornadoes, also known as gustnadoes.

“Strong winds will be the main concern, but a few brief tornadoes on the leading edge of the line cannot be ruled out,” said AccuWeather Meteorologist Michael Youman.

Tornadoes are possible today, Jan 12 in a string of strong storms.
Tornadoes are possible today, Jan 12 in a string of strong storms.

Here are safety tips when strong, damaging winds present:

  • Immediately go inside a sturdy building during a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning and move to an interior room or basement.

  • If you are in a mobile home, move to a sturdy building before the winds pick up or the storm system reaches your location.

If you are caught outside during strong winds:

  • Take shelter in your car if you are not near a sturdy building. If possible, drive to a nearby sturdy building. Otherwise, move your car to a location where it is less likely to be hit by falling trees or power lines.

  • If no shelter is available avoid trees, power lines, and the side of the road. Keep in mind that power lines that are laying on the ground may be live. Do not go near them. Try to find a place that will block blowing or falling debris.

  • If you are driving and aren’t near a sturdy building, hold the steering wheel with both hands and slow down.

  • Keep a distance from high profile vehicles such as trucks, buses and vehicles towing trailers. One strong gust of wind can be enough to flip one of these trailers onto its side.

  • Listen to the local news or NOAA Weather Radio for updates.

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