Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for all of Georgia as dangerous storms approach the state tonight.
🌪️ What We Know: The emergency order took effect at noon today and continues through Tuesday night. The declaration allows state emergency officials to prepare resources before the severe weather hits.
“This storm will hit at the worst possible time, as people are heading to or already in bed,” Governor Kemp said. “Individuals and families should prepare now and make plans to stay safe.”
The worst weather will strike Georgia late tonight through Sunday morning. Meteorologists warn of tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail across the state.
Western Georgia faces danger first, with storms reaching metro Atlanta before sunrise Sunday. Eastern and southern areas face the greatest threat after daybreak.
❓ What We Don’t Know: Forecasters cannot pinpoint exactly which communities will see the worst impacts or precisely when tornadoes might form within the system.
🔔 Why It Matters: The overnight timing means many Georgians will sleep through initial warnings. Weather alerts may not wake everyone in harm’s way.
The state emergency declaration also bans price gouging during the recovery period.
🔢 By The Numbers:
- Emergency declaration ends at 11:59 p.m. on March 18
- All 159 Georgia counties face potential severe weather
🌩️ What’s Next: The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has activated its operations center. Utility crews stand ready to restore power after the storms pass.
🛡️ Take Action: Before going to bed tonight:
- Charge your phone fully
- Turn on emergency alerts
- Have a battery-powered weather radio ready
- Know your safe room – an interior bathroom or closet on the lowest floor
- Keep shoes and flashlights near your bed
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.