Tropical Storm Warning in effect; Catastrophic storm expected

Well, I wish I was starting this blog on better terms. A Tropical Storm Warning is now in effect for almost all of Georgia. This means winds of at least 40 miles per hour will affect the area within 24 - 48 hours. This storm is expected to be of devastating proportion in the area. This storm could be a very high-end Tropical storm. Unfortunately, winds of over 60 miles per hour are becoming increasingly possible in the area. Today, we are going to go over this upcoming storm.

(NHC)

Summary of impacts...

• Expect extreme rainfall to affect the area in the order of 6 - 10". Flash flooding will be widespread and extreme

• Destructive winds of 50+ mph and gusts of 60+ Winds can do considerable damage to roofs, chimneys, and trees.

• Widespread, potentially multi-day, power outages. Power outages of this duration can be very dangerous to the elderly and those in need of electricity.

Rainfall...

(NHC)

Rainfall in our area is expected to be one of the key hazards of this storm. Rainfall of this magnitude is extremely life-threatening and should be treated as such. The National Weather Service in Atlanta came out with a statement this afternoon, saying

"With heavy rainfall already occurring today saturating the soils, there is a growing concern for the flash flooding risk and potentially historic rainfall on Thursday as a result of this tropical system." NWS Peachtree City

This confidence from the National Weather Service gives me high belief in a potentially historic rainfall event for North Georgia. Carroll County EMA advised people living in low-lying areas to seek higher ground BEFORE the storm. Preparations for up to 10" of rain should be rushed to completion!

Winds...

Winds are most likely to be our most impactful part of the storm.

(NHC)

The strongest winds are expected Thursday night into Friday morning. The center of the storm is expected to move over the area. This will bring damaging winds of up to 50+ mph with higher gusts. These wind speeds will bring considerable damage to mobile homes and unsecured objects such as cars and toys. The National Hurricane Center, in their key messages, stated,

"Strong wind gusts are also likely farther north across portions of northern Georgia and the Carolinas, particularly over the higher terrain of the southern Appalachians." National Hurricane Center

This will also cause widespread power outages.

Power Outages...

Widespread power outages are becoming increasingly likely across Temple. Due to major winds and rainfall, numerous trees will be knocked down. This will cause multiple power outages across the area. The National Weather Service in Atlanta noted this threat in their afternoon forecast, stating

"This coupled with intense heavy rainfall and saturated soils, will likely lead to widespread and extended power outages as a result of downed powerlines and trees." NWS Peachtree City

This threat of widespread power outages will be dangerous to those who rely on power. This includes the Elderly and Young Children. Stock up on batteries ahead of this storm to stay prepared!

Recap...

Dangerous winds and extreme rainfall are all possible in this storm. These 2 factors will likely cause widespread power outages in the area. Threats will vary depending on the track of the storm, be ready for changes in the forecast!

Any update to the forecast will be released on my Group Page! My group page is for members only and has discussions of the general public concerned about the weather. It is free to join for all! Join today!

Author: Remington Diedrich

Coauthor: Ace Huff