Georgia Prepares for Severe Winter Storm with State of Emergency

News Summary

As Georgia braces for an impending winter storm, Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency to ensure the safety of residents. Emergency preparations are underway, with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency ready to mobilize resources. Winter weather warnings have been issued for North Georgia, predicting significant ice and snowfall. Officials urge residents to limit travel and prepare for potential disruptions, including power outages. Community efforts are ongoing to stay informed and ready as conditions worsen over the weekend.

Georgia Prepares for Winter Storm with EMA State of Emergency

As residents of Georgia gear up for a possible icy and snowy weekend, the state has officially declared a State of Emergency in anticipation of the severe winter weather conditions. Governor Brian Kemp has taken the necessary steps to ensure the safety and preparedness of all Georgians as the winter storm approaches.

Emergency Preparations Underway

The declaration allows the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to take charge, activating the State Operations Center and mobilizing resources needed for this weather event. Starting Thursday at 7 p.m., the State Operations Center will shift to a Level 2 Activation. This means essential personnel from the Georgia Department of Transportation and Georgia Department of Public Safety will be on standby to respond to any incidents caused by the winter weather.

Winter Weather Warnings Issued

The National Weather Service has already issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for North Georgia. Light mixed precipitation is expected to begin late Thursday evening, with frozen precipitation likely by Friday morning. As temperatures are projected to stay below normal through Tuesday, residents should brace themselves for what’s to come.

Winter Storm Watch for North Georgia

Parts of North Georgia, including areas from Atlanta to Elijay, are under a Winter Storm Watch due to the anticipated significant ice accumulation of between 0.12 to 0.16 inches. Snowfall is also in the forecast, with some parts of Atlanta and Athens expecting as much as half an inch, while further north could see up to three inches of snow. This shifting snow and ice forecast has residents on alert.

Travel Advisory and Safety Measures

With hazardous conditions expected, Governor Kemp has urged Georgians to limit travel unless absolutely necessary. This urgent advice comes as local authorities are prepared to deal with conditions likely to impact travelers, especially during busy commutes on Friday morning. In fact, the winter storm is forecasted to hit Northeast Georgia around 5 to 7 a.m., coinciding with the rush hour.

School Districts and Community Preparations

In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the Clarke County School District is considering whether schools will hold in-person classes on Friday. Meanwhile, the University of Georgia is expected to update its campus operations ahead of the winter weather. Community preparations for potential power outages are being coordinated as electricity providers brace for the possibility of outages caused by ice accumulation on power lines and trees.

Wind and Tree Safety Tips

Authorities are pushing for residents to prepare for any likely disruptions while reminding them to stay safe during this winter event. Athens-Clarke police are advising everyone to plan ahead and to keep travel to a minimum. The community is encouraged to stock up on essentials as weather conditions may hinder access to businesses and services.

Staying Informed and Ready

As we inch closer to the weekend, it’s vital to keep an eye on weather updates and to stay informed. The NWS emphasizes that accumulating snow could lead to slippery roads and weather-related hazards, making safety a top priority for everyone.

With the winter storm fast approaching Georgia, let’s all take the necessary steps to stay safe and be prepared. Stock up on those snacks, check your winter gear, and keep the roads clear for emergency vehicles—together, we can weather this storm!