The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a hazardous weather outlook for north and central Georgia, particularly for Cobb County and surrounding areas.
Today, July 2, residents can expect scattered storms throughout the afternoon, with the majority of activity concentrated in Central Georgia.
Looking ahead, the NWS anticipates that isolated thunderstorms will remain a possibility each afternoon from Thursday through Monday.
A wide range of counties will be affected by this hazardous weather outlook. The counties include Baldwin, Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Bleckley, Butts, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattahoochee, Chattooga, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, Crawford, Crisp, Dade, Dawson, DeKalb, Dodge, Dooly, Douglas, Emanuel, Fannin, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Gilmer, Glascock, Gordon, Greene, Gwinnett, Hall, Hancock, Haralson, Harris, Heard, Henry, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Jones, Lamar, Laurens, Lumpkin, Macon, Madison, Marion, Meriwether, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, Murray, Muscogee, Newton, North Fulton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Paulding, Peach, Pickens, Pike, Polk, Pulaski, Putnam, Rockdale, Schley, South Fulton, Spalding, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taliaferro, Taylor, Telfair, Toombs, Towns, Treutlen, Troup, Twiggs, Union, Upson, Walker, Walton, Warren, Washington, Webster, Wheeler, White, Whitfield, Wilcox, Wilkes, Wilkinson.
Understanding the terminology used by the NWS is key to interpreting the storm forecasts.
The term “isolated” refers to thunderstorms that occur sporadically with a low probability of measurable precipitation of about 10%. These storms are relatively rare and typically confined to small areas, with significant gaps between individual storm cells.
Although classified as isolated, these thunderstorms can still be intense, producing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and lightning, which could include hail.
Conversely, “scattered” thunderstorms are more widespread and affect a larger portion of the area.
The coverage of scattered thunderstorms ranges from 30% to 50% of the forecast zone. Unlike isolated storms, scattered thunderstorms occur in greater numbers, creating gaps yet remaining disconnected from one another.
While scattered thunderstorms are not continuous, the likelihood of experiencing a thunderstorm in this context is significantly higher compared to isolated storms.
As thunderstorms become a more frequent occurrence in this season, the NWS reminds residents to stay informed and prepared.
The NWS plays a crucial role in delivering weather forecasts and warnings in the United States, acting under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Their mission aims to protect life and property while enhancing the economy by providing reliable weather, water, and climate information.
Through initiatives like impact-based decision support services and educational programs, the NWS strives to create a Weather-Ready Nation that is prepared for various weather-related events.
As Central Georgia continues to experience changes in weather patterns, staying updated through the National Weather Service is vital for safety and preparedness.
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on weather updates and take appropriate precautions during the stormy weather expected in the coming days.
image source from：cobbcountycourier
