...PERIODS OF HEAVY RAIN WILL INCREASE RISK OF FLASH FLOODING
THROUGH WEDNESDAY...
.RAINFALL EXPECTED...
Total accumulated rainfall amounts of 4 to 6 inches, with
isolated higher amounts to 7 inches or higher, are expected today
through Wednesday. These rainfall amounts will increase the risk
of flash flooding and river flooding over north and central
Georgia. Given the highly moist, rain-efficient environment,
expect that these rainfall amounts may be conservative in nature,
and higher amounts may be advertised in subsequent forecast
packages.
.SYNOPSIS...
A moist, unsettled air mass will remain over the state into the
weekend, producing numerous showers and thunderstorms each
afternoon and overnight, today through Saturday. A tropical system
approaches the region from the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend,
and begins spreading rain into parts of central Georgia after
midnight Sunday morning. As the low moves northward into the
region and stays west of the state, waves of heavy precipitation
will impact north and central Georgia.
.ANTECEDENT CONDITIONS...
Soils remain saturated over much of the area, and local rivers
and creeks are currently at normal to well above normal stream
flow. Rainfall observed over the last 7 days have been 300 to 600
percent of normal. As rainfall continues to accumulate, the
ability of rivers to handle increased runoff within the channel is
suppressed, and could quickly result in flash flooding.
.IMPACTS...
With the expected rainfall amounts, flash flooding can be
expected. Periods of heavy rain can overwhelm or clog storm drains
and ditches with debris and cause extensive street flooding and
road ponding. Saturated soils will make it easier for trees to
topple in windy conditions.
Minor flooding of some of the larger creeks or rivers is likely
with the expected storm total rainfall amounts, and should be
monitored closely. Moderate flooding of rivers and creeks already
above action or Minor flood stage is also possible.
Stay alert to changing forecasts. A Flash Flood Watch has been
issued for all of central and most of north Georgia, and is in
effect until 8 AM Saturday. This Watch may be extended in time or
expanded in area as the event unfolds. Additional Flood or Flash
Flood Watches may be issued over the next several days. Know what
to do if a warning is issued and you live near a creek or river.
For additional hydrologic information, visit our website at
weather.gov/atlanta. Click on the Rivers and Lakes tab under
current weather to access the latest river stage and precipitation
information.