The National Weather Service issued Tornado Watch 188 for much of north Georgia and metro Atlanta as strong storms threatened damaging winds, hail, heavy rain and a few tornadoes.
A tornado watch was issued Tuesday evening for much of north Georgia and metro Atlanta as a strong storm system moved through the region.
The National Weather Service said Tornado Watch 188 was in effect until 2 a.m. EDT Thursday for dozens of counties in Georgia, including areas around Atlanta. Official briefing materials said the main threats included damaging winds, a few tornadoes, heavy rainfall and isolated hail.
Atlanta News First reported live updates as severe thunderstorm warnings were issued and conditions changed through the evening. The station also reported a ground stop at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport during the storm period.
The watch covered a broad stretch of north Georgia, including counties such as Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Cherokee, Forsyth and Hall, according to National Weather Service advisories.
The weather service said the threat was expected to continue into the overnight hours, with heavy rain and flash flooding also part of the concern. Officials urged residents in the watch area to stay alert for warnings and changing conditions.
It was not immediately clear whether any tornadoes had been confirmed after the watch period ended, or whether the storms caused damage or injuries in the region.
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