[9 p.m.]: The ground stop at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has been lifted, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
[7 p.m.]: The Federal Aviation Administration does not expect the ground stop at Atlanta's airport to be lifted until 8 p.m. The status can be accessed at this link under ground stoppages.
[UPDATE, 6:30 p.m.]: A ground stop is in effect at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport due to storms in the area. Arrivals and departures are being delayed.
In addition, a flash flood warning is in effect for Cobb and Fulton counties, while a severe thunderstorm warning is in place for Clayton, DeKalb, Fayette, Fulton and Gwinnett counties, according to the National Weather Service.
[ORIGINAL STORY]: Metro Atlanta's summer pattern of heat and storms will continue Thursday with scattered afternoon showers.
After a clear start to the day, rain is expected to move in after lunch, Channel 2 Action News meteorologist Brian Monahan said. Those heading out this morning may want to bring an umbrella just in case.
“It’s nice this morning to start the day,” Monahan said. “The second half of the day, the heat builds and so does that chance of rain.”
The afternoon high is expected to reach nearly 90 degrees in Atlanta, but there’s a 60% chance of showers, according to the latest forecast.
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
“A lot like yesterday, we’re starting pretty quiet this morning,” Monahan said. “But as we get into the afternoon we’ll have some heavier downpours develop.”
Most of that rain is expected to move through Atlanta and neighborhoods to the east ahead of the afternoon commute, but there’s another chance of isolated storms this evening, he said.
Starting off the day, skies in Atlanta are relatively clear with temperatures in the low 70s. It’s expected to reach 84 degrees by lunchtime and warm up even more later this afternoon.
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
In addition to packing that umbrella, those venturing out in Atlanta today will be required to wear a mask to help curb the spread of COVID-19. Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms signed an executive order Wednesday evening mandating the use of masks in public spaces within city limits and also at the airport.
Face coverings are required inside businesses, public buildings and in public outdoor spaces. The order requires masks, “wherever it is not feasible to maintain appropriate social distancing from another person not in the same household.”
As for traffic, no major issues have been reported on metro Atlanta’s interstates this morning, and it’s pretty much smooth sailing into the city.
“It’s a great start to the morning commute,” Channel 2 Action News traffic reporter Mark Arum said. “That gives you one of two options: You can get out right now or you can sit back, relax and enjoy another cup of coffee. I do not predict we will see any delays on the interstate unless something big pops up on the freeways.”
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
» For a detailed forecast, visit The Atlanta Journal-Constitution weather page.
» For updated traffic information, listen to News 95.5 and AM 750 WSB and follow @ajcwsbtraffic on Twitter.
» Download The Atlanta Journal-Constitution app for weather alerts on-the-go.
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