A major winter storm is expected to hit Georgia later this week, and state officials are already preparing for its impact.
What’s Happening: Governor Brian Kemp has ordered multiple state agencies, including the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, to monitor weather forecasts and prepare for the approaching storm. The system is expected to bring a mix of snow, freezing rain, and sleet to north and central Georgia starting early Friday.
Weather forecasters predict temperatures near or below freezing throughout Friday and Saturday. Snowfall and ice accumulation could lead to hazardous road conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses. Strong winds on Saturday may cause falling trees and power outages.
State Action: The Georgia Department of Transportation will begin treating roads with brine on Thursday, focusing on areas along and north of I-20. The Department of Public Safety and Motor Carrier Compliance Division will assist with road safety and escort brining vehicles across the metro area and northern Georgia.
State officials are urging residents to avoid travel in affected areas. Those who must travel should allow extra time and give road crews plenty of space to work.
Why It Matters: With freezing temperatures expected to linger through the weekend, untreated roads could remain icy, posing risks for drivers. Officials are warning that strong winds may bring down power lines, increasing the potential for outages.
Preparedness Tips: Authorities are advising residents to take precautions now to stay safe and warm. Recommendations include:
- Use space heaters with automatic shut-off switches.
- Keep heat sources away from flammable materials.
- Insulate homes and pipes to prevent freezing.
- Stock up on emergency supplies, including blankets, food, and water.
- Keep pets indoors and check on elderly or disabled neighbors.
Drivers should ensure vehicles are winter-ready with antifreeze, full gas tanks, and emergency kits that include ice scrapers, jumper cables, and portable phone chargers.
What’s Next: State agencies will continue to update residents through the Georgia Emergency Management Agency website and social media channels. Officials urge Georgians to stay tuned to local news and weather updates as the storm approaches.
For more safety tips and updates, visit gema.georgia.gov/winter.
B.T. Clark
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.
