The National Weather Service had Polk County under a severe thunderstorm warning for a short amount of time while a gully washer came through, and it left behind a power outage after lightning strikes, heavy rain and winds hit the area west of Cedartown.

Georgia Power estimates that 1,131 customers in two larger outages – the majority stretching from Highway 100 North down to Esom Hill, and another around Johnson Lake Road. Because of the weather, power lines may be down at this time and those who are in the active storm area still underway should take caution and avoid any downed lines as they may still be active and can electrocute those handling them.

The outage map estimated customers should have power back by 10:45 p.m., but those estimates are based on information without having a full scope of the damage at this time. Update: many customers did get their power back around the estimated time, but around 200+ along Prior Station from Highway 100 North to the state line, and on Esom Hill Road, remained without electricity at this time. No estimate was available at this time.

The power remains out for an area of Johnson Lake Road, and is expected back on by 12:45 a.m.

A tree has also been reported down at the intersection of Prior Station and Mountain Home Roads during the storm. Another was reported down on power lines at Johnson Lake and Berry Roads.

Additional stormy weather remains over the area for the time being. Check back for additional information as it becomes available.