Stormy Weather Ahead for Georgia

Cold front to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential for tornadoes this weekend

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A strong cold front is set to move through Georgia on Friday, bringing scattered showers, downpours, and even a few thunderstorms through the morning hours. The threat for severe weather, including gusty winds up to 70 mph, hail, and a brief tornado, is highest from LaGrange to Griffin to Eatonton and points south. Once the front passes, much colder air will settle in, with highs struggling to reach the 40s on Sunday and lows dipping into the 20s by Tuesday morning.

Why it matters

The incoming weather system could pose a risk to public safety, with the potential for power outages, property damage, and dangerous driving conditions. The cold snap that follows will also impact daily life, requiring residents to adjust their plans and activities accordingly.

The details

The strong cold front will move through Georgia on Friday, bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms through the morning hours. The storms could produce gusty winds up to 70 mph, hail ranging from penny to quarter-sized, and a brief tornado, especially in the southern parts of the state. Once the front passes, temperatures will plummet, with highs only reaching the 40s on Sunday and lows dipping into the 20s by Tuesday morning. The cold, dry weather could also lead to an increased fire risk on Tuesday afternoon.

  • Scattered showers, downpours, and thunderstorms are possible through the morning hours until around noon on Friday.
  • The strongest storms, with the potential for damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes, are most likely from LaGrange to Griffin to Eatonton and points south on Friday.
  • Blustery and cold conditions will set in on Sunday, with highs struggling to reach the 40s and winds gusting over 40 mph.
  • Lows will dip into the low 20s (teens in the mountains) on Tuesday morning.
  • Warmer temperatures, with highs in the 50s and 60s, are expected by Wednesday and Thursday, but another front will bring more rain chances on Thursday.

The players

First Alert Weather Team

The meteorologists at Atlanta News First who are tracking the incoming weather system and its potential impacts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The First Alert Weather Team will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for severe weather and the expected cold snap.

The takeaway

This weather system serves as a reminder for Georgia residents to stay vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing and potentially dangerous weather conditions. It's important to heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities and to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their property.