State gets relief from Gulf Coast storm

Georgia is seeing some temporary drought relief in the remnants of Tropical Depression Humberto. Rainfall recorded by National Weather Service officials in Atlanta was 1.64 inches on Thursday at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. The amount was more than recorded on any single day for the entire month of August. The forecast is calling for more rain today as the system moves into northwest Georgia. A cold front by Sunday morning will bring low temperatures in the low 50s across north Georgia—60’s for lows in the southern part of the state Sunday. Despite the recent rain, officials say Georgia remains 14.5 inches below normal for the year.

Drought and GA's Trees

Falling trees are the latest result of Georgia's record drought. State officials say Georgia's rain deficit is 23 inches below normal this year. Now, even small storms can cause trees to fall. Trees with weak roots from a previous drought or freeze are especially vulnerable.

Floyd County Extension Agent Keith Mickler says trees do not show a sign of weakness until later.

"The only ramification is that this is going to show up years down the road. People are going to have forgotten about the drought and still not realize why their trees are dying," said Mickler.

Trees that drop large limbs are sick and should be checked. In order to save a tree, you need about half a gallon of water per square foot of area under the canopy, said Mickler.

With statewide watering restrictions in place, that may not be an option.