Severe weather threat issued for area

Published 1:43 pm Monday, August 7, 2023

Milledgeville and Baldwin County residents are being warned of an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms, posing a serious threat to property.

There is even the possibility for spin-up tornados late this afternoon and tonight, according to weather experts with the National Weather Service in Peachtree City.

Weather experts said tornado probabilities are highest across North Georgia, with the tornado risk spanning as far south as the I-20 corridor.

Some of the severe thunderstorms could be embedded with “spin-up” tornados.

“Widespread damaging straight line winds are the primary threat,” according to Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency Director Wayne Johnson.

The EMA director said strong, gusty winds between 50 and 70 mph were possible, with some isolated winds reaching speeds of up to 80 mph.

Damaging winds could lead to downed trees and power lines.

There is also the possibility of large hail of up to an inch in diameter. Vivid cloud to ground lightening is also expected, along with periods of heavy rainfall.

The hail threat extends as far south as Macon.

Intense thunderstorms could cause flooding in low-line areas.

Weather experts already issued a heat advisory on Monday. It started at noon and will run through 5 o’clock.

The heat index could reach as high as 109, meaning that’s what the temperature could actually feel like outside.

Those working outdoors are advised to use extreme caution, take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and potential heat stroke.

Tuesday’s forecast calls for a Level 2 out of 5 threat of severe weather due to the potential for isolated damaging, strong, gusty winds.

“The risk for severe weather on Tuesday has increased,” weather experts said.

A line of strong thunderstorms will move over western Tennessee and go in a southeast direction later this afternoon.

There is a chance that severe thunderstorms could roll in much sooner than some weather models have shown.