An evening commute turned soggy as heavy thunderstorms parked over metro Atlanta Wednesday. Fox 5 Atlanta reports the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning at 5:16 p.m. for eastern Fulton County and west central DeKalb County, in effect until 11:15 p.m.
The storm cells were slow-moving and intense, with rainfall rates of 1-2 inches within a 30-minute window. If the stationary cells remained in place for a full hour, radar estimates showed localized totals could reach up to 6 inches. Heavy storm activity also stretched across the top end of the perimeter near Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Hall County, and Carroll County.
For downtown and midtown, the concern is drainage. While widespread regional flooding was not expected, the sheer volume of water in a short time can overwhelm storm sewers and low-lying areas. Drivers are urged to turn around instead of attempting flooded roads, as most flood-related fatalities occur inside vehicles.
The weather pattern is expected to continue over the next few days, with scattered showers and storms likely through the weekend. A weak front moving into north Georgia Thursday morning will bring more moisture and the potential for additional downpours.
