Flash Flood Warning in Metro Atlanta Due to Heavy Rain
A flash flood warning stayed active in parts of metro Atlanta on Wednesday evening as heavy rain overwhelmed downtown streets and key highways. Authorities highlighted the life-threatening nature of the conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Peachtree City reported that the warning affected eastern Fulton and west-central DeKalb counties, lasting until 11:15 p.m. EDT. By 5:48 p.m., thunderstorms had already delivered between 2 and 3 inches of rain to the city, with more expected. Flash flooding occurred along the I-75/I-85 corridor near downtown, and some areas noted even higher rainfall.
Live coverage by Fox 5 Atlanta displayed severe flash flooding near the I-75/85 corridor, submerging one of the merge ramps.
Areas and People Affected by Flooding
Flooding had begun in urban areas, causing water to overflow streets, underpasses, and low-lying neighborhoods. Communities such as Midtown, Grant Park, Virginia Highland, and West End faced quickly deteriorating conditions.
Over 437,000 residents live within the warning area. NWS Atlanta advised those in the path of the flash flooding to “move immediately to higher ground.” The area includes 14 hospitals and 55 schools. Additional heavy storms could worsen the situation, as slow-moving storm cells linger, raising the risk of hazardous runoff in heavily paved areas.
NWS senior meteorologist Sid King informed Newsweek that more rain is anticipated, potentially adding up to an inch. Although forecasts didn’t predict an organized flooding threat, King indicated that such events remain possible, particularly in warm seasons. He explained, “When we have as much humidity and as much precipitable water, [pop-up thunderstorms] can produce efficient rainfall.” The storm lingered over downtown Atlanta, further intensifying flooding due to the urban setting’s poor runoff areas.
Staying Safe During the Flash Flood Warning
Officials advised drivers to avoid flooded roads, noting that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles. Residents were requested to report flooding to local emergency services if safe to do so. The warning emphasized, “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads,” reinforcing that most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
Future Weather Conditions in Atlanta
The flash flood warning is valid until 11:15 p.m. local time. Depending on ongoing conditions, meteorologists may either extend the warning or cancel it earlier. Additional rainfall is expected later in the week. The NWS mentioned in a hazardous weather outlook that “afternoon thunderstorms are possible across northern Georgia today.” Though severe weather isn’t anticipated, some storms might bring frequent lightning, small hail, and locally heavy rainfall. “Scattered thunderstorms are expected Thursday through Saturday, especially during the afternoon and evening, bringing risks of lightning and locally heavy rainfall. Widespread severe weather is not expected at this time,” the outlook added.