Middle Georgia at risk for damaging winds and tornadoes Friday afternoon, evening

Although the weather in Middle Georgia looks mild right now, much of the state is at risk for severe storms this afternoon and early evening.

“As daytime heating continues early this afternoon, scattered storms are expected to develop across much of north & central GA (as is happening in AL). Damaging wind gusts are still the main threat with large hail & tornadoes secondary threats,” the National Weather Service (NWS) in Peachtree City tweeted.

Damaging winds could reach up to 60 MPH. Large hail around 1-inch in diameter is also expected in Macon. Bibb County is currently under a tornado watch until 7 p.m.

Tornado watch vs. tornado warning

There is a distinction between a tornado watch and tornado warning. According to the NWS, “A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.”

A tornado warning means a tornado has been seen or indicated by weather radar, and there is “imminent danger to life and property.”

Under a tornado warning, people should:

• Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
• Avoid windows.
• If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

Always be prepared and if there are warnings issued, be sure to act fast. Visit the NWS website for radar updates and sign up for alerts on your local weather app.