Macon-Bibb County faced two rounds of severe weather in less than five days, as tornadoes touched down on March 12 and March 16. Despite the back-to-back storms, the County’s emergency response teams moved quickly and worked together to keep residents safe and informed.

The first tornado touched down between 6:46 and 6:50 a.m. on March 12, bringing EF-1 winds peaking at 100mph for a path 3.39 miles long and 200 yards wide. Just days later, a stronger system moved through the community, with an EF-0 tornado touching down between 7:58 and 8:05 a.m. on March 16, producing winds peaking at 85 mph for a path 1.94 miles long and 350 yards wide.

Ahead of both storms, the County began activating its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) overnight. Teams from Emergency Management, Public Works, Firefighting, Communications, and more staffed the EOC and prepared for potential impacts.

As conditions worsened and damage reports began to come in, crews immediately shifted into response mode. From the EOC, teams coordinated in real time to direct field crews to downed trees, blocked roadways, and other hazards across the community. At the same time, Communications worked to keep residents informed with timely and accurate updates.

“When dangerous weather strikes, our Emergency Management team is ready. In this case, we had to respond twice,” said EMA Director Spencer Hawkins. “With back-to-back tornadoes touching down in less than a week, our team prepared and jumped into action. As soon as the winds stopped, crews were out assessing damage, clearing roads, and restoring power. It’s also a reminder that everyone should take time to be prepared for emergencies.”

While most major roadways were cleared quickly, crews continue working in some areas to fully address remaining debris. That work is expected to be completed soon thanks to the continued efforts of field teams.

Macon-Bibb County extends its appreciation to the staff in Emergency Management, Communications, Fire, Public Works, Parks & Beautification, and Sheriff for stepping up when it mattered most.

These storms served as a reminder of the importance of preparation and coordination. While our teams work to stay prepared, Hawkins wants to remind our community to also stay prepared.

People can sign up for MBCAlert by going to www.maconbibb.us/mbcalert or getting the free mobile app, and people are encouraged to follow the Agency on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Hawkins also wants to stress to people that follow local media and weather forecasters on their social media channels to make sure they get as much information as possible about emergencies and severe weather.