Update (4:10pm EDT): The National Weather Service (NWS) has extended Tornado Watch 679 to five southeast Georgia counties until 8pm local time, Saturday, as per WJCL.
The watch covers Bryan, Chatham, Liberty, Long and McIntosh counties. According to WJCL, areas included in the watch are Darien, Fort Stewart, Garden City, Hinesville, Ludowici, Pembroke, Pooler, Richmond Hill, Savannah and Tybee Island.
Tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. Residents should keep an eye on weather updates. They should also be ready to move to a safe place if a warning is issued.
Initial story: A tornado was reported in progress in South Georgia, with videos shared by storm chasers showing a massive twister near Newington, Georgia.
As per the National Weather Service (NWS), a tornado warning remains in effect for Screven County until 3:45pm EDT.
At 3:31 p.m. EDT, a confirmed tornado was near Hunters, according to the NWS. It was moving northeast at 25 mph.
{{/usCountry}}At 3:31 p.m. EDT, a confirmed tornado was near Hunters, according to the NWS. It was moving northeast at 25 mph.
{{/usCountry}}The NWS said the source of the confirmation was law enforcement.
Here are the videos:
Also read: Old Farmer's Almanac weather forecast for October 11-20: What weather will the US see?
What is the danger?
The NWS has listed the hazard as a “damaging tornado.”
According to the NWS, flying debris will be dangerous for anyone caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Roofs, windows and vehicles will also be damaged, and tree damage is likely.
According to Ryan Hall, Y’all, a digital meteorologist, have confirmed a large and dangerous tornado in Screven County, Georgia. He posted on X: “Get to an interior room on the lowest floor right now if you’re in Screven County, Georgia. Spotters have confirmed a large, dangerous tornado near Captolo moving northeast toward Newington, Hunters, and Sheppards. This PDS Tornado Warning runs until 3:15pm EDT."
Which areas are hit?
As per the NWS, the areas impacted are mainly rural parts of Screven County.