Thunderstorm Wind in Lowndes County, Georgia

Based on storm reports and radar data, damage began near the I-75 Exit 18 in Valdosta and continued East-Northeast through the northwest portion of Valdosta. Within this area, numerous large pine trees were uprooted with a few snapped along the swath of severe winds. All trees uprooted or snapped were facing to the east or northeast, which is indicative of straight-line wind damage. Moreover, radar data from Moody Air Force Base displayed a distinct downburst signature throughout the duration of the storm in Valdosta. Examination of the photos and drone imagery from Valdosta Fire and Lowndes County EMA showed that in some areas, damage was extensive with widespread pine trees falling onto homes. In total, 32 homes were affected, with a few homes being directly impacted by pine trees, effectively sliced in half. Damage to all single family homes was due to tree impacts, with no damage noted due directly to the straight-line winds. Wind damage reports extended as far north as Lakeshore Drive. The path width peaked at just over 1 mile wide, mainly in the area inside Inner Perimeter Road. Based on the size and number of trees uprooted and a few snapped, the maximum winds within this area is rated at 75 mph.

Steep mid-level lapse rates with sufficient instability ahead of a cold front sparked numerous thunderstorms across the area with severe weather. Most of the reports were in the form of large hail, and wind damage was confined to the Valdosta area. However, significant wind damage did occur in Valdosta due to a downburst.