TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — A batch of steady rain covers most southwestern Georgia counties and much of the Big Bend early Thursday morning. Rainfall amounts in southwestern Georgia since Wednesday night have already exceeded five inches in a few spots, with several more gauges near or over three inches. These areas of rain will persist for another few hours, causing local flooding.
Heavy and steady rain is affecting Gadsden, Leon, Liberty, and Wakulla counties, where similarly high rain totals are being measured as of 2:00 a.m.
A swath of downpours is expected to reach Brooks and Lowndes counties in a few hours, increasing flooding risks in those areas.
A series of flash flood warnings is in effect early this morning:
- Baker, Miller, and Mitchell counties until 3:15 a.m.
- Seminole County east to Thomas County until 5:15 a.m.
- Franklin, Liberty, Wakulla, Leon, Gadsden, and Jefferson counties until 7:15 a.m.
- Brooks and Lowndes counties until 9:45.
Flooding is most likely to occur in creeks, streams, urban areas, and locations with poor drainage.
Active storms in the Apalachicola River region and the eastern Panhandle are forecast to affect additional local counties in the early morning hours today. These storms will tap into a strong southerly wind flow to increase the chances for gusty winds, more heavy rain, and a couple of spin-up tornadoes.
Forecast trends are being monitored for the possibility of another tornado watch, though the issuance of one is not expected through 4 a.m., based on guidance from the Storm Prediction Center.
Tornado warnings are still possible, meaning storms can create tornadoes that had been detected by radar or seen by spotters or law enforcement.
