LIVE BLOG | Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect for multiple counties in North GA

Friday midday weather forecast

There is an enhanced risk for severe storms today in Georgia. Rain had moved into North Georgia as of noon.

1:45 P.M. UPDATE | A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for multiple counties until 8 p.m. They include: Upson County, DeKalb County, Spalding County, Fayette County, Cobb County, Lamar County, Heard County, Coweta County, Paulding County, Walton County, Douglas County, Oconee County, Haralson County, Rockdale County, Butts County, Clayton County, Hall County, Forsyth County, Newton County, Gwinnett County, Carroll County, Clarke County, Fulton County, Meriwether County.

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A ground stop is also in effect until 2:30 p.m. at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport until 2:30 p.m. because of weather, according to Federal Aviation Administration. At this time, there are 313 delays at Hartsfield-Jackson, according to FlightAware.com. 

The FOX 5 Atlanta Storm Team will break in with LIVE coverage if needed. Download the FOX LOCAL app now to watch on your TV, tablet or phone. 

EARLIER STORY

Unfortunately, metro Atlanta and North Georgia are not out of the woods yet, with the potential for severe weather — including isolated tornadoes — expected again today.

What we know:

A cold front moving in from the northwest is expected to bring a line of stronger storms to Georgia on Friday, including the possibility of damaging winds, large hail, and isolated spin-up tornadoes.

The storm system will be distinctly different from the showers seen Thursday, which were fueled by moisture from the Gulf. "That cool front could bring stronger storms tomorrow afternoon," forecasters said, emphasizing the need for residents to stay weather-aware.

RELATED: Henry County tornado critically injures son of 'The Wire' actor, damages homes

Timeline:

The line of storms is forecast to begin developing around 9 to 10 a.m. in parts of north Georgia, including Rome, Ellijay, and Blairsville. It is expected to move into the metro Atlanta area around noon, bringing quick but intense downpours. The most severe weather—including the highest risk for tornadoes—is expected in areas outlined in yellow on the storm severity scale, which corresponds to a Level 2 out of 5.

"Along the leading edge of this is where we’re looking for those possible spin-up tornadoes," according to FOX 5 Atlanta's Storm Team meteorologists. 

By 2 to 3 p.m., the system is expected to shift southeastward through areas like Eatonton and Thomaston, with conditions drying out later in the afternoon. Rainfall totals could range from half an inch to one inch, adding to already saturated soil from earlier in the week.

How To Stay Safe:

It is important during periods of severe weather, particularly when tornadoes are a possibility, that you know what to do if a Tornado Watch or Tornado Warning is issued. Here are some safety tips:

• Prepare an Emergency Kit – Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and a phone charger (this should be done before severe weather arrives).
• Take Shelter Immediately – Go to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Mobile homes and vehicles are not safe.
• Have a Weather Alert System – Use a NOAA weather radio or smartphone alerts to get real-time warnings.
• Cover Your Head and Neck – Use pillows, helmets, or heavy blankets to protect yourself from flying debris.
• Avoid Windows and Doors – Stay away from glass, which can shatter during high winds.

It is also important to know what to do if you are caught on the road when a tornado is coming through.

What to do if you're driving during a tornado

Finding a safe place during a tornado warning can be hard when you're on the road. FOX 5 Storm Team meteorologist Joanne Feldman tells viewers what they should do if they're driving when a tornado forms.

What's next:

After the storms pass, the weather is expected to improve significantly. The weekend forecast includes sunny skies and highs in the mid-80s, climbing to the upper 80s and near 90 degrees by the middle of next week.