Severe Weather

Thunderstorms are a frequent occurrence in Georgia, often bringing intense lightning and heavy rainfall that can trigger rapid flash flooding in the Savannah and Atlanta regions. Because these severe weather events can develop with little advance warning, review the guidelines below to ensure you know how to navigate sudden storms and emergency conditions safely.

Thunderstorms and lightning

During thunderstorms, members of the university community are urged to seek immediate shelter within a secure building. Individuals caught outdoors should avoid high-risk zones such as open fields, elevated terrain, and isolated trees, and seek immediate low-lying cover. Individuals should remain sheltered until 30 minutes have passed following the last audible thunder or observed lightning strike. A general rule is that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning.

Lightning poses a critical threat to outdoor safety. To manage this risk, SCAD University Safety requires that all outdoor university events establish contingency plans and implement the 15-12-10 Rule:

  • 15 Miles: Notify key organizers and staff to prepare for a potential event shutdown.
  • 12 Miles: Begin taking active steps to halt the event.
  • 10 Miles: Cease all outdoor activities immediately and move attendees indoors.

Activities may resume only after 30 minutes have passed without a lightning strike within the 10-mile radius.

Flash flooding

Heavy rain can cause rapid flash flooding, particularly in low-lying sections and urban areas with limited greenspace for water absorption. If you encounter a flooded street or intersection while driving, remember the golden rule: “turn around, don't drown.” Just six inches of standing water can cause a vehicle to stall or lose control, while two feet of moving water can float and carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.

Additionally, avoid walking through moving water or near storm drains, retention ponds, and flooded drainage ditches. Fast-moving currents as shallow as six inches can easily knock an adult off their feet, and floodwaters can often hide submerged debris and other hazards.