Many Georgians awakened Sunday morning to heavy thunderstorms, damaging winds, even hail in some areas.
A tornado touched down around 8 a.m. in Troup County, uprooting trees that landed on homes and vehicles. Authorities say several people were trapped in their homes. At least three people were injured.
Heavy thunderstorms arrived in the CSRA this morning. There were severe thunderstorm warnings in effect most of the morning as a long line of storms dumped heavy rain, and pea-size hail in some areas. Intermittent showers could continue throughout the afternoon, then officials say it’s possible there will be more strong thunderstorms tonight and into Monday morning.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement this morning, urging all Georgians to join officials in praying for those impacted by today’s storms. He also issued a state of emergency in areas that were heavily impacted, including Troup County. Kemp said his office will be monitoring the weather and will work with officials to assess the damage.
Meanwhile, two tigers escaped from the Pine Mountain Animal Safari park after their enclosure was damaged during the storms in Troup County. Residents in the area were instructed to stay in their homes while they were on the loose. Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari officials said the tigers were found a short time later, were tranquilized and returned safely to the zoo.