Georgians woke up to teeth-chattering temperatures this morning, with Arctic air plunging the state into the 20s. Wind chills made it feel like the teens in most areas. This bitter cold is here to stay for the week, with a winter storm expected to bring snow and travel chaos.
🌡️ Why It Matters: These extreme conditions are rare in Georgia and can be dangerous. Roads could become treacherous, and freezing temperatures pose risks to residents, especially those unprepared for such weather.
🌬️ What’s Happening: The cold snap is intensifying as a storm barrels toward Georgia. Snowfall is expected to begin Tuesday afternoon, with significant accumulation likely in southern parts of the state, including areas south of Columbus and along the U.S. Highway 82 corridor, as well is in the metro Atlanta region.
- Today’s Forecast: Highs in the upper 30s with sunny skies. Wind chills will stay in the 20s, making it feel even colder.
- Tonight: Lows drop to the low 20s, with wind chills in the teens again.
🌨️ Winter Storm Outlook: Cold air meeting the Gulf system creates a perfect setup for snow, with snowfall expected to begin late Tuesday. Travel conditions will deteriorate quickly, as roads in Georgia lack the infrastructure for snow and ice management.
🚨 Between the Lines: This storm is unusual for the South. While northern states may shrug off a few inches of snow, Georgia’s limited snow-clearing resources mean even a light snowfall could grind travel to a halt. Residents are urged to stay off roads during the storm. Ice will form on surfaces quickly, and even experienced drivers may struggle with unplowed routes.
📅 What to Expect Midweek: Wednesday could be the coldest day yet. Morning lows will dip into the teens, with wind chills plunging into single digits in some areas. The National Weather Service may issue an Extreme Cold Warning, so bundle up. Snow will linger into Wednesday morning before tapering off.