Athens is under a flash flood watch. Forecasters say Periods of heavy rainfall are likely today and Thursday as deep tropical moisture from the Gulf of Mexico streams northward across much of Georgia.
On average, two to four inches of rainfall is expected within the watch area. However, locally higher amounts around 5 inches are possible across the higher terrain of north Georgia. Several creeks and rivers could rise out of their banks closing roads and impacting homes, businesses and farms.
High water may not recede until well after the rain has ended. A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding.
The watch includes much of Georgia including Clarke, Barrow, Jackson, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Madison counties. The watch in effect until Friday morning.
Flooding will be the primary weather hazard today, but a few strong storms, or an isolated severe thunderstorm, cannot be ruled out.
The potential for localized flooding is high, especially in urban centers, low lying areas and poor drainage areas where moderate to heavy rain persists for extended periods of time.
Any strong thunderstorm that develops will be capable of producing damaging wind gusts. As soils become more saturated, even a sub-severe thunderstorm can down trees.
