Gov. Kemp urges Georgia to prepare for approaching winter storm, mix of freezing rain, sleet + snow forecasted

ATLANTA – Gov. Brian P. Kemp is urging Georgia families “to stay weather aware” and he has instructed relevant state and local agencies to prepare for the freezing wintry mix of rain, sleet and snow expected to move across Georgia by Friday.

Kemp announced that he has notified Georgia’s Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), and all relevant state agencies to monitor the winter weather forecast and prepare for the storm system expected to enter the state later this week.

“As with any weather system that might impact Georgia communities, we are actively monitoring the approaching winter storm and taking action now to ensure our communities are prepared for any possible impact,” said Kemp. “Along with state agency leaders, I’m urging Georgians to stay weather aware, especially as they make plans for the coming days. Please make necessary arrangements to keep your family safe and stay tuned for more information as this storm approaches.”

A significant winter weather event is likely to occur across north and central Georgia on Friday with impacts lingering through the weekend. A mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet, and snow will begin to move into western Georgia early Friday morning and cover much of north and central Georgia by sunrise. This wintry mix will continue throughout the day into Friday night before diminishing early Saturday morning, Kemp’s office stated in a news release on today, Jan. 8.

Temperatures will be near or just below freezing between the onset of wintry precipitation on Friday morning all the way through sunset on Saturday. Forecast snowfall and ice accumulation totals will fluctuate over the next few days, but a few inches of snow and one-quarter of an inch of ice or more will be possible across much of North Georgia and even parts of Central Georgia on Friday, officials said.

State Action and Preparation

GDOT vehicles and crews will begin brining roads on Thursday, particularly in areas north of and along I-20. Residents are encouraged to avoid travel in the most impacted areas.  If travel is absolutely necessary, however, motorists should give plenty of space and clearance to allow GDOT crews to continue to treat and clear roads as needed for the safety of the traveling public.

The Motor Carrier Compliance Division has partnered with GDOT to escort brining details across the metro area into northern Georgia to the Tennessee line starting on Thursday. State troopers and DPS officers will be on standby across the state for any service calls regarding the winter weather and the needs of the state.

Winter Weather Preparedness Guidance

Residents should check with their local officials for information about warming centers and comfort station locations. More tips are as follows:

• Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches.
• Keep heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
• Insulate your home and ensure doors and windows are sealed.
• Check and install a working carbon monoxide detector.
• Have backup heat sources like extra blankets, sleeping bags, or a wood-burning fireplace.
• Check your antifreeze, brakes, heater, tires, and wipers.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full.
• Carry an emergency ready kit with items that include a portable phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction, and jumper cables.
• Use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Allow pipes to drip or insulate them to prevent freezing.
• Keep pets indoors and check on elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors.

For more winter weather preparedness tips, visit gema.georgia.gov/winter.

GEMA/HS will provide ongoing updates regarding winter weather conditions via its website (gema.georgia.gov) and social media accounts. Residents are encouraged to monitor local National Weather Service updates and news stations.