Updated: Hail, Strong Winds Likely in Severe Storms

Updated 8:20 p.m., June 15:

A severe thunderstorm watch has been extended for 32 Georgia counties, including Gwinnett, by the National Weather Service in Atlanta.

The watch is in effect until 11 p.m. A watch means severe storms, including hail, damaging winds and lightning are possible in and around the area. Gwinnett is located in the southern part of the watch area.

At 7:45 p.m., the National Weather Service issued another special statement about the metro-Atlanta storms. Doppler radar continues to indicate "a severe thunderstorm capable of producing large, damaging hail up to golf ball sized." That storm was located near Mountain Park, which is the Lilburn area. It was moving east at 45 mph.

Earlier weather officials issued a special weather statement about dime-sized hail and winds up to 45 mph in areas that includes Gwinnett, Walton, Barrow and Jackson counties.

The National Weather Service is asking that if the public sees large hail or significant flooding to wait until after the storm has passed to call the office. The National Weather Service can be reached toll free at (866) 763-4466.