Tornado, flash flood watches for Middle Georgia last into Friday

Middle Georgia could see severe weather Friday as up to four inches of rain is expected in parts of the state through Friday, prompting flash flood and tornado watches.

The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch Thursday around 9:15 p.m. to 5 a.m. Friday. The watch includes Bibb, Crawford, Jones, Monroe and Peach counties in Middle Georgia.

The National Weather Service issued the flash flood watch from Thursday evening to Friday evening as heavy rain is forecast to bring 2.5 - 3.5 inches of rain to north and western sections of Middle Georgia.

The flood watch area includes communities west of Interstate 75 and south of Interstate 20.

Flash flooding could be a problem if heavier rain repeatedly moves over the same area or in intense downpours.

Storm drains and ditches could become clogged with debris, which could bring street flooding.

Minor flooding of larger creeks and rivers is also likely.

Macon, Warner Robins, Rome, Atlanta, Columbus, Cordele and Americus are all included in the watch.

Dublin also is expected to see nearly three inches of rain with this system.

The potential for severe weather is greatest along and south of Interstate 20, according to a hazardous weather outlook posted Thursday.

Telegraph writer Stephen Mays contributed to this report.

This story was originally published March 31, 2016 at 4:46 AM with the headline "Tornado, flash flood watches for Middle Georgia last into Friday ."