Storm damage in Habersham County [PHOTOS]

The severe weather that pummeled the South Sunday into early Monday is now making its way up the East Coast. The storm system left a trail of death and destruction in its wake, killing at least 18 people across the South, including five here in Georgia.

RELATED Storm cleanup, damage assessment underway

There are reports of widespread damage throughout Northeast Georgia. Here’s a look at some of the damage in Habersham County captured by Now Habersham photographer Daniel Purcell.

High winds blew the siding off Connextion Church in Cornelia. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Metal siding was tossed around like tin cans by the high, sustained winds. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Across Habersham County, trees fell across roadways, blocking traffic and causing the Sheriff to urge everyone to stay inside. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Habersham County deputies helped county road crews clear the debris. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Winds whipped through the county for two hours before dawn Monday. The worst damage was in the south end of the county. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Trees fell and utility lines snapped outside homes in South Habersham County. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Public safety officials urge the public to steer clear of downed utility lines. Do not touch them or attempt to clear them yourselves. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

(Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Fallen trees trapped people inside their homes. Several residents had to be rescued along Harrison Trail and Yonah Post Road. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

(Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

(Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

(Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

(Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Habersham County officials urged residents to stay home and off the roads. Downed trees and power lines made travel conditions unsafe. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

There was extensive damage to homes and businesses across Georgia, including in Habersham County. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

(Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Hayes auto dealership sustained heavy damage in the storm. (photo submitted by HCES)

The storm shredded the roof off a gas station and convenience store adjacent to Hayes Auto in Baldwin. (photo submitted by HCES)

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