Athens Radio Club

Hurricane Isaias

Air Force and NOAA Hurricane Hunter data indicate that the maximum sustained winds have increased to near 110 mph (175 km/h) with higher gusts. Isaias is likely to become a major hurricane this morning. Slight weakening is expected before landfall, but it is expected to remain a dangerous hurricane.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 30 miles (45 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 185 miles (295 km).

Damaging wind gusts are possible over much of central and northern Alabama, extreme eastern Mississippi, and portions of western and northern Georgia, especially in areas of higher terrain. Additional Tropical Storm and High Wind Watches and Warnings may be required for portions of that area later today. Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid driving high-profile vehicles, and prepare for power outages.

Short Term Forecast
(Today through Saturday)
Issued at 511 AM EDT Fri Oct 9 2026

Overcast and mild conditions are expected to start out today before Hurricane Isais begins to impact all of North and Central Georgia this evening and into the overnight hours of early saturday morning. Hurricane Isaias will make landfall over the Gulf Coast and then weaken as it moves northward across Mississippi and Alabama into the TN Valley. North and Central Georgia will be on the northeast quadrant of the storm with a prolonged period of strong winds, heavy rainfall with localized flash flooding, and a few tornadoes.

Strong Winds: As Isaias moves inland tonight and into Saturday, its wind field will expand considerably, with strong winds extending well east of the center of the storm into West-Central GA. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for this area where wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph will be possible. Further north/east, while Isaias will be weakening and becoming post-tropical, there will be a very strong pressure gradient between it and high pressure over the Mid-Atlantic. This gradient will support a prolonged period of strong easterly winds with frequent gusts to 40 to 50 mph across most of North Georgia from early Saturday through early Sunday. A High Wind Watch has been issued for this area. The prolonged and strong winds could lead to numerous power outages from downed limbs and trees, especially when combined with saturated soils from periods of heavy rain.

Heavy Rainfall: As Isaias moves northward through Mississippi/Alabama, it will bring widespread rainfall and multiple bands of heavy rain across the area tonight through Sunday. Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are likely across much of the area, with localized amounts up to 5 inches possible. High rainfall rates (PWAT values of 2-2.3") and repeated rounds of heavy rain could lead to localized flash flooding, particularly in urban and poor-drainge areas, as well as flood-prone creeks and streams. A Flood Watch has been issued for the entire area.

Tornadoes: As Isaias tracks northward and inland on Saturday, a favorable environment for tornadoes will develop across North and Central Georgia, potentially lingering into Sunday morning. Several tornadoes will be possible during this period, including the overnight hours Saturday night. Tornadoes from tropical systems are typically quick to develop and short-lived, but with the forward speed of the system and the unique setup, we can`t rule out a stronger (EF2 or EF3), long-track tornado. It is imperative that everyone has a way to receive tornado warnings.

Extended Forecast
(Saturday night through Thursday)
Issued at 511 AM EDT Fri Oct 9 2026

Warm and Dry In the Wake of Isaias: On the backside of what remains of Isaias, a mid-level ridge will build over the Southeast, promoting a warm and dry airmass. Rain chances will drop to near zero for Monday through Thursday, with low temperatures in the upper 50s to lower 60s, and high temperatures in the lower to mid 80s.

Hazardous Weather Outlook is for north and central Georgia.

.DAY ONE...Tonight...
No hazardous weather is expected through tonight.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Friday through Wednesday...
Impacts from Hurricane Isaias are expected from Friday evening into early Sunday. Threats include strong, gusty winds, heavy rain causing flash and river flooding, and a few tornadoes are also possible. A high wind watch has been issued for Saturday morning through Sunday morning over areas of northeast, north, and north central Georgia. A tropical storm watch is also in effect for portions of southwest Georgia Friday evening into Saturday. Please continue to monitor the forecast for the most recent information on Hurricane Isaias.

Athens Area Forecast from NWS

National Hurricane Center - hurricanes.gov

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