Flood and Hail in Georgia, February 21, 2005

Name: Flood and Hail in Georgia, February 21, 2005
Start: 2005-02-21T11:48
End: 2005-02-21T23:35
Location: Georgia

February 21, 2005 · NWS FFC · 95 events in 45 counties and zones

77 hail, 11 thunderstorm wind, 5 lightning, 1 heavy rain, 1 flood, as filed by the National Weather Service.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it; 7 filed by county or forecast zone are drawn at its center, in a lighter ring. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $29 million
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 95

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Atlanta, GA wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Feb 21, 10:30 AM EST, 1 hour 18 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Feb 21, 10:30 AM EST, 1 hour 18 minutes before

AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION...UPDATED
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PEACHTREE CITY GA
1030 AM EST MON FEB 21 2005

.UPDATE...
QUICK UPDATE TO INCLUDE NEW SEVERE TSTORM WATCH FOR EXTREME
NORTHWEST SECT. ALSO LOWERED POPS FOR AREAS GENERALLY SOUTH OF A
ROME TO GAINESVILLE LINE. THINK BEST PRECIP COVERAGE WILL REMAIN
NORTH OF THIS LINE THROUGH THE AFTERNOON.

&&

.FFC WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
GA...NONE.

&&

Hazardous weather outlook, Feb 21, 10:27 AM EST, 1 hour 21 minutes before

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PEACHTREE CITY GA
1027 AM EST MON FEB 21 2005

GAZ001>009-011>016-019>025-027-030>039-041>062-066>076-078>086-
089>098-102>113-221100-
BALDWIN-BANKS-BARROW-BARTOW-BIBB-BLECKLEY-BUTTS-CARROLL-CATOOSA-
CHATTAHOOCHEE-CHATTOOGA-CHEROKEE-CLARKE-CLAYTON-COBB-COWETA-CRAWFORD-
CRISP-DADE-DAWSON-DE KALB-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-
1027 AM EST MON FEB 21 2005

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR NORTH AND CENTRAL GEORGIA.

.DAY ONE...TODAY.

...ISOLATED SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE ACROSS FAR NORTH GEORGIA
TODAY...

.SYNOPSIS...
AN UPPER LEVEL LOW MOVING ACROSS THE TENNESSEE AND OHIO VALLEYS WILL
BRUSH ACROSS NORTH GEORGIA THIS AFTERNOON. SURFACE WIND FLOW WILL BE
INCREASING FROM THE SOUTHWEST THROUGHOUT THE DAY.

.PRIMARY HAZARD...
ISOLATED SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE ACROSS FAR NORTH GEORGIA
ALONG AND AHEAD OF THE UPPER LEVEL STORM SYSTEM. THE PRIMARY THREAT
WILL BE DAMAGING WINDS. THE BEST CHANCE FOR SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WILL
BE NORTH OF A LINE FROM ROME TO CLEVELAND. THE BEST TIME FOR SEVERE
THUNDERSTORM DEVELOPMENT WILL BE BETWEEN 11 AM AND 5 PM.

.DISCUSSION...
A LINE OF THUNDERSTORMS APPROACHING FAR NORTH GEORGIA LATE THIS
MORNING WILL MOVE ACROSS PARTS OF FAR NORTH GEORGIA THROUGH THE
AFTERNOON. INSTABILITY WILL BE SUFFICIENT FOR THUNDERSTORMS. WITH
STRONG LOW AND MID LEVEL WINDS...A FEW THUNDERSTORMS MAY BECOME
SEVERE. CAPE WILL BE AROUND 500 WITH HELICITY VALUES FORECAST TO BE
AROUND 200. THIS WILL LEAD TO ISOLATED SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS...WITH
WINDS OF 55 MPH OR GREATER...AND POSSIBLY SOME HAIL TO THE SIZE OF
DIMES.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...
SPOTTER GROUPS AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL SHOULD MONITOR
WEATHER CONDITIONS...AND BE READY FOR POSSIBLE ACTIVATION.

.DAY TWO THROUGH DAY SEVEN...TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY.
A FEW THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE TUESDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY. ANY
STORMS THAT FORM ARE EXPECTED TO REMAIN BELOW SEVERE LIMITS.
OTHERWISE NO HAZARDOUS WEATHER IS EXPECTED.

&&
FOR THE GRAPHICAL HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK AND OTHER WEATHER
INFORMATION...PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WEATHER.GOV...AND CLICK ON
GEORGIA.

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Feb 21, 8:30 AM EST, 3 hours 18 minutes before

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PEACHTREE CITY GA
830 AM EST MON FEB 21 2005

GAZ001>007-211415-

830 AM EST MON FEB 21 2005

AT 825 AM EST...NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DOPPLER RADAR INDICATED A
CLUSTER OF THUNDERSTORMS FROM NEAR TRENTON TO RINGGOLD TO COHUTTA
...MOVING NORTHEAST AT 40 MPH.

RAINFALL AMOUNTS UP TO AN INCH CAN BE EXPECTED WITH THESE STORM OVER
THE NEXT HOUR. DRIVERS SHOULD USE CAUTION AS INTENSE RAINFALL MAY
REDUCE VISIBILITIES. PONDING OF WATER ON ROADWAYS IS ALSO LIKELY.

The radar

The Northeast Alabama radar (KHTX), 112 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 16:47 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

77 hail, 11 thunderstorm wind, 5 lightning, 1 heavy rain, 1 flood. Local standard time, as filed.

Hail, Cherokee

When: February 21, 11:48 AM EST
Where: Cherokee County, 5 mi NE of Waleska
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: TRAINED SPOTTER
Coordinates: 34.250, -85.183

A storm spotter reported penny-sized hail.

Thunderstorm Wind, Walker

When: February 21, 11:55 AM EST
Where: Walker County, Countywide
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: DEPT OF HIGHWAYS
Coordinates: 34.867, -85.500

The Walker County Road Department reported that a few trees were down throughout the county.

Thunderstorm Wind, Dade

When: February 21, 12:00 PM EST
Where: Dade County, Trenton
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $250
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.017, -84.617

The Dade County 911 Center reported that one tree was blown down. In additon, they also reported pea-sized hail.

Hail, Cobb

When: February 21, 12:14 PM EST
Where: Cobb County, Kennesaw
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.867, -84.317

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Lightning, Dawson

When: February 21, 12:15 PM EST
Where: Dawson County, Dawsonville
Property damage: $600,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 34.444, -84.171 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Dawson News & Advertiser reported that lightning struck and destroyed a $600,000 home in the Ridgeview community.

Hail, Murray

When: February 21, 12:30 PM EST
Where: Murray County, Eton
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: TRAINED SPOTTER
Coordinates: 34.817, -84.750

A storm spotter for the National Weather Service reported penny-sized hail. Wind gusts were also estimated at 65 mph.

Thunderstorm Wind, Gilmer

When: February 21, 12:32 PM EST
Where: Gilmer County, Ellijay
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.850, -84.667

The public reported that several trees were blown down in the Ellijay area.

Hail, Fannin

When: February 21, 12:45 PM EST
Where: Fannin County, Blue Ridge
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.700, -84.483

The Fannin County 911 Center reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 12:45 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Duluth
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.000, -84.150

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Gilmer

When: February 21, 12:50 PM EST
Where: Gilmer County, Ellijay
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.700, -84.483

The Gilmer County 911 Center reported nickel-sized hail.

Hail, Cobb

When: February 21, 1:00 PM EST
Where: Cobb County, Powder Spgs
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.000, -84.150

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 1:00 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Duluth
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.167, -84.800

Numerous reports of hail, ranging in size from pennies to quarters, were received from the public. Penny to nickel-sized hail was reported in Duluth, nickel-sized hail in Lawrenceville, and quarter-sized hail in Grayson and Snellville.

Hail, De Kalb

When: February 21, 1:25 PM EST
Where: De Kalb County, Tucker
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.850, -84.217

The public reported nickel-sized hail.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 1:25 PM EST to 1:35 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Lawrenceville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.950, -83.983

Numerous reports of hail, ranging in size from pennies to quarters, were received from the public. Nickel-sized hail was reported in Lawrenceville with quarter-sized hail in Grayson and Snellville.

Hail, Barrow

When: February 21, 1:47 PM EST
Where: Barrow County, Bethlehem
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.933, -83.717

The public reported quarter-sized hail.

Hail, Walton

When: February 21, 1:50 PM EST to 1:58 PM EST
Where: Walton County, Loganville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.833, -83.900

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Oglethorpe

When: February 21, 1:59 PM EST
Where: Oglethorpe County, Lexington
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.867, -83.117

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Oconee

When: February 21, 2:00 PM EST
Where: Oconee County, Watkinsville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.867, -83.400

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Lightning, Oglethorpe

When: February 21, 2:00 PM EST
Where: Oglethorpe County, Lexington
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 34.367, -85.167

The Oglethorpe Echo of Lexington reported that the Courthouse Clock Tower in downtown Lexington took a direct hit from lightning. Nine computers in the building were destroyed and the building suffered some structural damage as well.

Hail, Oconee

When: February 21, 2:21 PM EST
Where: Oconee County, Watkinsville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.867, -83.400

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Oglethorpe

When: February 21, 2:29 PM EST
Where: Oglethorpe County, Lexington
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.867, -83.117

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Heavy Rain, Wilkes

When: February 21, 3:15 PM EST
Where: Wilkes County, Washington
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 33.782, -82.743 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The News Reporter of Washington reported that heavy rain pooled on the roof of the Wilkes County Department of Family and Children's Services building. A significant leak developed as a result causing damage to ceiling tiles, carpet, and other equipment. Several offices were flooded.

Hail, Taliaferro

When: February 21, 3:25 PM EST
Where: Taliaferro County, 5 mi E of Sharon
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.550, -82.717

The public reported penny-sized hail. A few small branches were also blown down.

Hail, Whitfield

When: February 21, 4:15 PM EST
Where: Whitfield County, Dalton
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: TRAINED SPOTTER
Coordinates: 34.767, -84.950

A trained spotter and cooperative observer for the National Weather Service reported nickel-sized hail.

Hail, Murray

When: February 21, 4:20 PM EST
Where: Murray County, Crandall
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: FIRE DEPT/RESCUE SQUAD
Coordinates: 34.867, -84.733

The Murray County Fire Department and Rescue Squad reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Chattooga

When: February 21, 4:50 PM EST to 5:10 PM EST
Where: Chattooga County, Trion
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Property damage: $150,000
Reported by: AMATEUR RADIO
Coordinates: 34.533, -85.317

Several reports of hail ranging in size from quarters to ping pong balls were received from amateur radio operators in both Trion and Summerville. The public reported quarter-sized hail just east of Lyerly.

Hail, Union

When: February 21, 4:58 PM EST
Where: Union County, Blairsville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.867, -83.950

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Towns

When: February 21, 5:08 PM EST
Where: Towns County, 5 mi S of Hiawassee
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.883, -83.750

The Towns County 911 Center reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, White

When: February 21, 5:14 PM EST
Where: White County, Helen
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.100, -84.033

The White County 911 Center reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Gordon

When: February 21, 5:19 PM EST
Where: Gordon County, Calhoun
Measured: 2 in hail
Property damage: $350,000
Reported by: AMATEUR RADIO
Coordinates: 34.483, -84.933

A number of reports were received from amateur radio operators and the public of one to two inch diameter hail. Nickel-sized hail in Calhoun at 519 pm EST, was followed by quarter to half-dollar-sized hail in both Calhoun and Plainville at 527 pm EST, and then golf ball to 2.0 inch diameter hail at 530 pm EST about 4.5 miles south of Calhoun.

Hail, Lumpkin

When: February 21, 5:20 PM EST
Where: Lumpkin County, 4 mi N of Dahlonega
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.583, -83.983

The Lumpkin County 911 Center reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Pickens

When: February 21, 5:20 PM EST
Where: Pickens County, Hinton
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.417, -84.117

The public reported nickel to quarter-sized hail.

Hail, Chattooga

When: February 21, 5:24 PM EST to 5:27 PM EST
Where: Chattooga County, Menlo
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.483, -84.583

The public reported quarter-sized hail two miles east of Lyerly, while an amateur radio operator reported nickel-sized hail in Menlo.

Hail, Bartow

When: February 21, 5:28 PM EST
Where: Bartow County, 2 mi N of Adairsville
Measured: 2 in hail
Property damage: $1.0 million
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.483, -85.467

The public reported hail ranging in size from quarters just north of Adairsville to nearly 2.0 inches in diameter in Adairsville. Extensive damage was reported to vehicles and roofs of homes in the area.

Hail, Dawson

When: February 21, 5:30 PM EST
Where: Dawson County, Dawsonville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.700, -83.717

The Dawson County 911 Center reported quarter-sized hail.

Flood, Dawson

When: February 21, 5:30 PM EST
Where: Dawson forecast zone
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 34.444, -84.171 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Forsyth County News reported that a man drove his vehicle into flood waters from the Etowah River in the southwest portion of the county within the Dawson Forest Management Area. The man escaped safely from the flood waters, but the vehicle was damaged.

Hail, Floyd

When: February 21, 5:40 PM EST
Where: Floyd County, Armuchee
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $450,000
Reported by: TRAINED SPOTTER
Coordinates: 34.367, -85.167

A volunteer student for the National Weather Service reported golf ball-sized hail.

Hail, Floyd

When: February 21, 5:45 PM EST to 6:00 PM EST
Where: Floyd County, Rome
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.400, -84.950

Several reports of large hail, ranging in size from nickels to silver dollars, were received from the public.

Thunderstorm Wind, Floyd

When: February 21, 5:45 PM EST to 6:00 PM EST
Where: Floyd County, Armuchee
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 34.167, -84.800

The Rome News Tribune reported that thunderstorms winds downed a number of trees across the northern part of the county. Many of the trees fell across power lines causing power outages for around 4300 residents. On Warren Road, a tree fell across a power line and ruptured a natural gas line.

Hail, Cherokee

When: February 21, 5:54 PM EST to 6:20 PM EST
Where: Cherokee County, 3 mi W of Canton
Measured: 2.75 in hail
Property damage: $4.5 million
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 34.367, -84.483

The Cherokee County Emergency Management Director, along with numerous reports from the public, confirmed that a wide swath of large and very damaging hail fell across much of the central portion of Cherokee county from three miles west of Canton to Hickory Flat, southeast of Canton. There were many reports of hail better than 2.0 inches in diameter, with measured hail stones of 2.75 inches from residents along Georgia Highway 140 near Lower Burris Road in Canton. So much large hail fell, that even 15 hours after the event, hail still lined some streets in the Canton area. The public works department had to be called out to clear ice from roadways. Extensive damage to roofs, vegetation, and automobiles were reported throughout the area. On Liberty Boulevard in the northern section of Canton, three very large car dealerships reported that their entire inventory had been damaged with damages in this area alone around $3.0 million. Over 100 privately owned vehicles were damaged at a Wal Mart parking lot located near this location. The city of Canton Police Department reported damages to their vehicles exceeding $40,000. Total damage estimate to homes, vehicles, and vegetation in the area was $4.5 million. This event ranked as the second most costly hail storm in Cherokee County's history.

Hail, Cobb

When: February 21, 6:20 PM EST to 6:55 PM EST
Where: Cobb County, Acworth
Measured: 2.5 in hail
Property damage: $5.0 million
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.083, -83.817

Numerous reports of large hail were received from the public in Acworth, Kennesaw, and Marietta. Golf ball to tennis ball-sized hail was reported in Acworth, golf ball-sized hail in Kennesaw, and nickel to quarter-sized hail in Marietta. Damage was reported to vehicles and residences.

Hail, Forsyth

When: February 21, 6:25 PM EST to 6:40 PM EST
Where: Forsyth County, Cumming
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $930,000
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.233, -84.533

The public reported hail ranging in size from pennies to golf balls.

Hail, Bartow

When: February 21, 6:25 PM EST to 6:30 PM EST
Where: Bartow County, Cartersville
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $500,000
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.067, -84.300

The public reported hail ranging in size from quarters to golf balls. Extensive damage was reported to vehicles and roofs of buildings and homes in the area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Bartow

When: February 21, 6:25 PM EST to 6:30 PM EST
Where: Bartow County, Cartersville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 34.238, -84.840 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Daily Tribune News of Cartersville reported that thunderstorm winds blew down a few trees in the area. Some power lines were brought down as a result.

Lightning, Cobb

When: February 21, 6:30 PM EST to 6:45 PM EST
Where: Cobb County, Kennesaw
Property damage: $500,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 33.942, -84.577 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Marietta Daily Journal reported that lightning struck and set on fire four homes in the northern portion of the county. Three of the homes suffered major damage.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 6:38 PM EST to 7:00 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Sugar Hill
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $3.9 million
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.083, -84.667

Numerous reports of large hail, ranging in size from pennies to golf balls, were received from the public in the Buford, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, and Dacula areas. Penny to golf ball-sized hail was reported in Suwanee, quarter to golf ball-sized hail in Buford, quarter-sized hail in Sugar Hill, and quarter-sized hail in Dacula.

Hail, Glascock

When: February 21, 6:44 PM EST
Where: Glascock County, Gibson
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 34.083, -84.667

The Glascock County Emergency Management Director reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Fulton

When: February 21, 6:50 PM EST to 6:55 PM EST
Where: Fulton County, Alpharetta
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 34.200, -84.150

The public reported quarter-sized hail in Alpharetta and penny-sized hail in Ocee.

Hail, Barrow

When: February 21, 6:55 PM EST to 7:30 PM EST
Where: Barrow County, 1 mi S of Thompsons Mill
Measured: 2 in hail
Property damage: $1.0 million
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 34.033, -83.817

Numerous reports of large hail were received from the Barrow County Emergency Management Director, the 911 center, and the public. Most of the hail fell within a narrow area along and near Georgia Highway 211 in the northwest part of the county from near its intersection with Interstate 85 to the city of County Line. The hail accumulated to a significant depth and still reported to be covering the roads several hours after the storm had passed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Barrow

When: February 21, 6:55 PM EST to 7:15 PM EST
Where: Barrow County, 2 mi NE of Auburn
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 33.883, -84.300

The Barrow County Emergency Management Director reported that lots of pine trees were down near Georgia Highway 211, just south of the city of County Line.

Lightning, Barrow

When: February 21, 7:00 PM EST to 7:15 PM EST
Where: Barrow County, Auburn
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 33.993, -83.713 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Gwinett Daily Post of Lawrenceville reported that lightning struck two homes in western Barrow county causing just minor damage. No fire resulted.

Hail, Cherokee

When: February 21, 7:05 PM EST
Where: Cherokee County, 2 mi SSW of Payne
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 33.800, -84.050

The Cherokee County Emergency Manager reported penny-sized hail in the extreme southwest corner of the county near the intersection of Interstate-75 and Georgia Highway 92.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 7:05 PM EST to 7:20 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Norcross
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $5.0 million
Reported by: TRAINED SPOTTER
Coordinates: 34.367, -84.950

The Gwinnett County SkyWarn coordinator reported golf ball-sized hail in Lilburn. The public reported nickel-sized hail in the eastern portions of Norcross/western portions of Lilburn near Interstate-85. The Gwinnett Daily-Post reported that 90 percent of the vehicles parked at the Mall of Georgia were damaged by the hail.

Hail, Bartow

When: February 21, 7:20 PM EST
Where: Bartow County, Adairsville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: AMATEUR RADIO
Coordinates: 33.950, -83.383

An amateur radio operator reported quarter-sized hail.

Hail, De Kalb

When: February 21, 7:30 PM EST to 7:40 PM EST
Where: De Kalb County, Chamblee
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.933, -84.217

The public reported quarter and half-dollar-sized hail in Tucker, a storm spotter reported nickel-sized hail in Decatur, and the public reported penny-sized hail near the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport.

Hail, Clarke

When: February 21, 7:30 PM EST to 7:50 PM EST
Where: Clarke County, Athens
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.783, -83.417

The public reported nickel to quarter-sized hail from the western portion of Clarke county across the Oconee border from Bogart to Athens.

Lightning, Walton

When: February 21, 7:30 PM EST
Where: Walton County, Monroe
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: NEWSPAPER
Coordinates: 33.833, -83.900

The Walton Tribune reported that lightning caused damage at one of the Walton EMC distribution centers. Two transformers were destroyed and damage was caused to other electrical equipment at the facility.

Hail, Fulton

When: February 21, 7:35 PM EST
Where: Fulton County, Sandy Spgs
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.800, -84.383

The public reported quarter-sized hail.

Hail, Walton

When: February 21, 7:40 PM EST
Where: Walton County, Loganville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.800, -84.633

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Washington

When: February 21, 7:42 PM EST
Where: Washington County, Sandersville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 34.217, -84.617

The Washington County 911 Center reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Cherokee

When: February 21, 7:43 PM EST
Where: Cherokee County, Sutallee
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 33.867, -84.350

The Cherokee County Emergency Management Director reported penny-sized hail in far southwest Cherokee county near the Bartow county line.

Hail, Oconee

When: February 21, 7:46 PM EST
Where: Oconee County, Farmington
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 32.983, -82.800

The Oconee County 911 Center reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 7:53 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Snellville
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: TRAINED SPOTTER
Coordinates: 33.733, -83.517

The coordinator for the Gwinnett County SkyWarn reported golf ball-sized hail five miles southwest of Snellville near the intersection of Georgia Highway 29 and Pleasant Hill Road. The public reported penny to quarter-sized hail in Snellville and another storm spotter reported quarter-sized hail in Centerville.

Hail, De Kalb

When: February 21, 8:00 PM EST
Where: De Kalb County, Druid Hills
Measured: 2 in hail
Property damage: $4.6 million
Reported by: UTILITY COMPANY
Coordinates: 33.850, -84.017

An employee of the DeKalb County Water Department reported that hail ranging in size from pennies to greater than golf ball, on the order of 2.0 inches in diameter fell.

Hail, Walton

When: February 21, 8:03 PM EST to 8:05 PM EST
Where: Walton County, Loganville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.367, -84.450

The public reported quarter-sized hail in Loganville and penny to quarter-sized hail in Monroe.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: February 21, 8:10 PM EST
Where: Morgan County, Bostwick
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 33.883, -83.150

The Morgan County 911 Center reported that a few trees were blown down.

Hail, Oglethorpe

When: February 21, 8:15 PM EST to 8:20 PM EST
Where: Oglethorpe County, Crawford
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 33.733, -82.983

The Oglethorpe County 911 Center reported quarter-sized hail in Crawford. The public reported nickel-sized hail in Lexington.

Hail, Gwinnett

When: February 21, 8:22 PM EST
Where: Gwinnett County, Centerville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.783, -82.900

The public reported quarter-sized hail.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wilkes

When: February 21, 8:25 PM EST
Where: Wilkes County, Rayle
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: LAW ENFORCEMENT
Coordinates: 34.733, -85.317

The Wilkes County Sherrif's Department reported that several large trees limbs were down in the Rayle area blocking some secondary roads.

Hail, Rockdale

When: February 21, 8:25 PM EST
Where: Rockdale County, Conyers
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $550,000
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.833, -83.900

The public reported golf ball-sized hail.

Hail, Wilkes

When: February 21, 8:25 PM EST
Where: Wilkes County, Rayle
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: LAW ENFORCEMENT
Coordinates: 33.550, -82.800

The Wilkes County Sherrif's Department reported half-dollar-sized hail in the Sardis Road area. Some vehicle damage was reported in the area.

Hail, Oglethorpe

When: February 21, 8:30 PM EST
Where: Oglethorpe County, Philomath
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.667, -84.017

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Walton

When: February 21, 8:30 PM EST
Where: Walton County, Loganville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.833, -83.900

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cobb

When: February 21, 8:30 PM EST
Where: Cobb County, Austell
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: FIRE DEPT/RESCUE SQUAD
Coordinates: 33.783, -82.900

The Austell Fire Department reported that a few trees were down in the city.

Hail, Taliaferro

When: February 21, 8:33 PM EST
Where: Taliaferro County, Sharon
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.917, -84.383

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Newton

When: February 21, 8:35 PM EST
Where: Newton County, 2 mi NNE of Dialtown
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.900, -84.333

The public reported quarter-sized hail between Oxford near Flint Hill or about half way between Oxford in Newton county and Walnut Grove in Walton county.

Hail, De Kalb

When: February 21, 8:45 PM EST
Where: De Kalb County, North Atlanta
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.533, -82.667

The public reported nickel-sized hail on the northeast side of Atlanta.

Hail, Fulton

When: February 21, 8:46 PM EST
Where: Fulton County, 3 mi NNE of Atlanta
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: PARK/FOREST SERVICE
Coordinates: 33.733, -83.517

Officials at Atlanta's Piedmont Park reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Warren

When: February 21, 8:55 PM EST
Where: Warren County, Cadley
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: POST OFFICE
Coordinates: 33.667, -84.017

The Norwood Post Office relayed reports of hail from the Cadley area. A local business reported nickel-sized hail in the area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: February 21, 9:10 PM EST
Where: Morgan County, Bostwick
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 33.683, -83.850

The Morgan County 911 Center reported that several trees were blown down across the north end of the county.

Hail, Rockdale

When: February 21, 9:20 PM EST
Where: Rockdale County, Conyers
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.654, -84.027 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The public reported quarter-sized hail.

Hail, Newton

When: February 21, 9:28 PM EST
Where: Newton County, Covington
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: LAW ENFORCEMENT
Coordinates: 33.600, -83.867

A trained spotter with the Covington Police Department reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Greene

When: February 21, 9:32 PM EST
Where: Greene County, Greensboro
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.567, -83.183

The public reported quarter-sized hail.

Thunderstorm Wind, Washington

When: February 21, 9:45 PM EST
Where: Washington County, Sandersville
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: EMERGENCY MANAGER
Coordinates: 32.983, -82.800

The Washington County Emergency Management Director reported that one tree was blown down onto a power line.

Hail, Carroll

When: February 21, 10:05 PM EST
Where: Carroll County, Carrollton
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.583, -85.083

The public reported nickel-sized hail.

Hail, Putnam

When: February 21, 10:15 PM EST
Where: Putnam County, 4 mi E of Rudden
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: LAW ENFORCEMENT
Coordinates: 33.433, -83.267

The Putnam County Sheriff reported golf ball-sized hail in the Lake Oconee area.

Hail, Fayette

When: February 21, 10:30 PM EST to 10:45 PM EST
Where: Fayette County, Peachtree City
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.417, -84.450

The public reported quarter-sized hail in the northern sections of Peachtree City in the Kelly Drive area, while amateur radio operators reported nickel-sized hail in similar areas.

Hail, Coweta

When: February 21, 10:44 PM EST to 10:55 PM EST
Where: Coweta County, 3 mi W of Newnan
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.367, -84.850

Several reports were received from the public of nickel to quarter-sized hail. Minor damage to vehicles was reported. In addition, a Ford Dealer in Newnan reported that the hail damaged the side of an outbuilding.

Hail, Troup

When: February 21, 10:49 PM EST
Where: Troup County, West Pt
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 32.867, -85.183

The public reported quarter-sized hail.

Hail, Haralson

When: February 21, 10:59 PM EST
Where: Haralson County, Bremen
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 33.717, -85.150

The Haralson County 911 Center reported nickel-sized hail.

Hail, Heard

When: February 21, 11:00 PM EST
Where: Heard County, 2 mi N of Cooksville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.267, -85.000

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Coweta

When: February 21, 11:10 PM EST
Where: Coweta County, 3 mi E of Newnan
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $100,000
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 32.867, -84.850

The public reported golf ball-sized hail in Senoia, half-dollar-sized hail just east of Newnan, and nickel-sized hail in Sharpsburg.

Hail, Fayette

When: February 21, 11:17 PM EST to 11:23 PM EST
Where: Fayette County, 3 mi S of Peachtree City
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: OFFICIAL NWS OBS.
Coordinates: 33.367, -84.750

The public reported quarter-sized hail near Georgia Highway 54 just east of the Peachtree City city limits. Employees at the National Weather Service Forecast Office on the south side of Peachtree City observed penny-sized hail.

Hail, Harris

When: February 21, 11:35 PM EST
Where: Harris County, Pine Mtn
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GOVT OFFICIAL
Coordinates: 33.417, -84.233

The public reported penny-sized hail.

Hail, Henry

When: February 21, 11:35 PM EST
Where: Henry County, 5 mi WSW of Mc Donough
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: GENERAL PUBLIC
Coordinates: 33.233, -82.600

The public reported penny-sized hail near Georgia Highway 81 west of McDonough.

What these are

Hail: Hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, or smaller hail that caused damage, filed with the largest stone measured.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Lightning: A lightning strike that killed, injured or caused damage.
Heavy Rain: Rainfall totals unusual for the place and season that did not produce a flood.
Flood: Flooding that develops more slowly than a flash flood: rivers leaving their banks, or water standing over land for an extended time.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Georgia in 2005 Every state in 2005 This day in weather history Warnings in Georgia, February 2005

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 5440911, 5440840, 5440841, 5440842, 5441167, 5440858, 5440845, 5440843, 5440847, 5440844, 5440846, 5440917, 5440848, 5440851, 5440850, 5440849, 5440853, 5440852, 5441162, 5440854, 5440855, 5441169, 5440856, 5440913, 5440857, 5440859, 5440860, 5440864, 5440930, 5440862, 5440863, 5440907, 5440908, 5440909, 5440906, 5441168, 5440861, 5440910, 5441163, 5440912, and more.