Arctic Air, Ice, and Snow Could Freeze Georgia Roads This Week

January 20, 2025
1 min read
A blast of Arctic air is forecast to hit Georgia this week, bringing some of the coldest temperatures of the year. With highs only in the 20s and teens, ice and possibly snow could make driving treacherous. AAA urges Georgia motorists to prepare their vehicles and plan for winter travel safety.

A blast of Arctic air is forecast to hit Georgia this week, bringing some of the coldest temperatures of the year. With highs only in the 20s and teens, ice and possibly snow could make driving treacherous. AAA urges Georgia motorists to prepare their vehicles and plan for winter travel safety.

🧊 What’s Happening: The freezing weather can cause hazardous road conditions and strain vehicle performance. AAA research shows that winter storms contribute to nearly half a million crashes and over 2,000 fatalities annually. Motorists are advised to avoid driving during severe weather whenever possible.

🚗 Preparing Your Vehicle: Before heading out, clear all snow and ice from your car, including the roof and hood.

  • Check the battery. Cold temperatures can sap its power, especially in batteries older than three years.
  • Tire pressure drops by 1-2 PSI for every 10-degree temperature decline, so ensure they’re properly inflated.
  • Windshield wipers and fluid should be winter-ready. Replace wipers if they streak, and fill the washer reservoir with antifreeze solution.
  • Ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

🛑 Safety Tips on the Road: Avoid driving if possible. If driving cannot be avoided, AAA recommends reducing speed and increasing following distances.

  • Check the weather and adjust plans accordingly.
  • Pack an emergency kit with essentials like water, blankets, extra clothing, and a phone charger.
  • Avoid braking on ice. Instead, slow down before icy patches. If your car skids, steer in the desired direction.
  • Use sand or cat litter for traction if stuck.

Electric vehicle drivers should preheat their cars while still charging to conserve battery life.

🚨 Stranded? Stay Safe: If stuck on the roadside, stay in your car unless it’s unsafe to do so. Run the engine intermittently for warmth, but turn it off occasionally to save fuel. Alert law enforcement if necessary.

A blast of Arctic air is forecast to hit Georgia this week, bringing some of the coldest temperatures of the year. With highs only in the 20s and teens, ice and possibly snow could make driving treacherous. AAA urges Georgia motorists to prepare their vehicles and plan for winter travel safety.
B.T. Clark
Publisher at 

B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.


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