Seek Shelter: Strong Storms, Lightning, Heavy Rain Impact Bartow & Cherokee

Residents in Bartow and Cherokee counties should immediately seek shelter due to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service Peachtree City, GA. This alert is effective from 3:00 PM EDT and expires at 3:30 PM EDT today, October 4th, 2026.

At 2:59 PM EDT, a line of strong thunderstorms was detected by radar moving east at 15 mph. This line extends from Waleska to Sutallee to Emerson.

The primary hazards associated with these storms are frequent cloud-to-ground lightning and heavy rain. Lightning is a leading cause of fatalities, and if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. The heavy rainfall may also lead to temporary street flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage.

Locations impacted include Canton, Cartersville, Woodstock, Acworth, Holly Springs, Emerson, Ball Ground, Nelson, Waleska, Free Home, Buffington, Hickory Flat, Kellogg Creek, Red Top Mountain State Park, Lathemtown, Hobgood Park, Union Hill, Lake Arrowhead, and Little River Landing.

People who are outdoors should seek immediate shelter. Electrical appliances should only be used in an emergency. Motorists are advised to slow down and be prepared for potential loss of control due to hydroplaning on wet roads.