Tropical Storm Warning for West-Central Georgia; Prepare for Isaias

Residents across North and Central Georgia, particularly those in west-central areas, must prepare for significant impacts from Hurricane Isaias. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Chattahoochee, Harris, Heard, Macon, Marion, Meriwether, Muscogee, Pike, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taylor, Troup, Upson, and Webster counties. The National Weather Service in Peachtree City GA issued a Tropical Cyclone Local Statement tonight, October 9, at 11:29 PM EDT.

Hurricane Isaias, currently located over the western Florida panhandle with 90 mph winds, is moving north at 20 mph. The storm's center is expected to move through Alabama overnight and Saturday. North and Central Georgia anticipate a prolonged period of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential tornadoes, with impacts peaking Saturday into Saturday night.

A High Wind Warning is in effect for most of North Georgia due to frequent gusts of 40 to 60 mph. Areas to the south and east are under a Wind Advisory with gusts up to 40 mph possible. Widespread rainfall of 2 to 4 inches is expected, with localized areas receiving up to 8 inches, leading to potential flash flooding and river flooding. A Flood Watch is in effect for the entire area. Tornadoes are possible tonight through Saturday, particularly in Central Georgia initially, then advancing north.

Residents should complete all preparations now. Keep cell phones charged and avoid driving through flooded roadways. If a Tornado Warning is issued, seek shelter quickly in an interior room away from windows. Monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio, or local news for updates. The next update is expected around 5 AM EDT, October 10.