Seek Shelter: Strong Thunderstorms Approaching Gwinnett, DeKalb, Rockdale, Walton, Newton Counties

Residents in Gwinnett, DeKalb, Rockdale, Walton, and Newton counties are advised to seek shelter immediately due to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Peachtree City GA.

As of 8:01 PM EDT tonight, September 19, a line of strong thunderstorms was detected moving southwest at 15 mph. The storms were located along a line extending from near Lawrenceville to Rosebud to near Between. This statement is effective until 8:30 PM EDT tonight.

Hazards include winds up to 40 mph, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, and heavy rain. The NWS indicates that impacts may include minor damage to tree limbs and the blowing around of light, unsecured objects. Heavy rain could cause temporary street flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage.

Locations that may be impacted include Lawrenceville, Conyers, Monroe, Covington, Snellville, Lilburn, Loganville, Stone Mountain, Grayson, Oxford, Lithonia, Walnut Grove, Pine Lake, Between, Jersey, Tucker, Lakeview Estates, Georgia International Horse Park, Mountain Park, and Big Haynes Creek Park.

If you are outdoors, seek shelter immediately. The NWS reminds the public that if thunder is audible, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Motorists are urged to slow down and prepare for potential loss of control due to hydroplaning.