Georgia and much of the Southeast are bracing for a significant winter storm expected to arrive this weekend, bringing the potential for substantial and disruptive freezing rain and ice accumulation. While the exact type of precipitation remains uncertain, forecasters anticipate a prolonged period of wintry mix across north Georgia, lasting through most of the weekend. Winter precipitation is projected to begin on Saturday and continue through at least Sunday evening. This storm poses a significant threat, with potential disruptions including impassable roads, widespread power outages, and closures of businesses and schools, possibly extending into the following week.
11Alive is providing continuous updates throughout the day ahead of the storm’s arrival. A crucial update from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) was scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Thursday.
Staying Informed: Your Guide to Winter Storm Updates
A major winter storm capable of causing severe disruption to metro Atlanta and north Georgia is on the horizon. 11Alive is committed to providing comprehensive coverage of developments as they unfold throughout the weekend. Residents are urged to stay informed through reliable news sources and official advisories.
Understanding the Forecast: Best-Case vs. Worst-Case Scenarios
With less than 48 hours until the anticipated Winter Storm Event begins in the Southeast, there remains some uncertainty regarding the extent of freezing rain expected across north Georgia. This uncertainty stems from differing long-range model predictions. Some models suggest a quicker erosion of the cold air wedge, while others indicate a stronger and more persistent wedge. Higher-resolution models, as the event approaches and begins in western areas, will provide a clearer picture. It’s important to note that cold air wedges can sometimes hold stronger than initial model projections.
Winter Storm Watch Broadens its Reach
The National Weather Service has expanded the Winter Storm Watch to include a significant number of additional counties. These newly added counties are: Fulton, Polk, Paulding, Cobb, Gwinnett, Haralson, Carroll, Douglas, DeKalb, Rockdale, Walton, Newton, Morgan, Greene, Taliaferro, Coweta, Fayette, Clayton, Spalding, Henry, Butts, Jasper, Putnam, Barrow, Jackson, Madison, Clarke, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Wilkes, Hancock, Warren, Jones, Baldwin, Washington, Glascock, and Jefferson.
Timeline of the Winter Weather Event
Current model guidance suggests that precipitation will commence on Saturday afternoon, intensify significantly on Saturday night, and persist into Sunday. The highest risk for ice accumulation is expected from Saturday night through Sunday morning, which could result in icy roads, downed trees, and widespread power outages. Areas northeast of the Atlanta metro are identified as having the greatest potential for the most substantial ice accumulations. Newer model data indicates a possibility of a transition from freezing rain back to cold rain for many areas near and south of metro Atlanta by Sunday afternoon, contingent on the influx of milder air from the south.
Initial Winter Storm Watch Counties
Prior to the expansion, the initial Winter Storm Watch was issued for the following counties: Dade, Walker, Catoosa, Whitfield, Murray, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, Towns, Chattooga, Gordon, Pickens, Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Floyd, Bartow, Cherokee, Forsyth, Hall, Banks, Rabun, Habersham, Stephens, Franklin, Hart, and Elbert.
Governor Kemp’s Response: State of Emergency Declared
Governor Brian Kemp and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency held a live media briefing at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday to provide updates on the impending storm. The video of this briefing is available on-demand. Governor Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for all Georgia counties, effective for seven days. The State Operations Center, dedicated to disaster response, was activated at 7 a.m. on Saturday and will operate 24/7 until the event concludes. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) began treating roads around midnight on Friday and continued through the overnight hours of Saturday morning, prioritizing areas north of I-20.
In a statement, Governor Kemp urged Georgians to prepare for hazardous conditions, including freezing precipitation, potential damage, and power loss beginning Saturday. He emphasized close collaboration with state and local officials to ensure preparedness for all scenarios. GDOT, along with emergency management and public safety teams, will be working around the clock. The Governor strongly advised all Georgians to take necessary precautions now to ensure their families and pets remain safe, warm, and supplied with food for the coming days.
Accessing Live Coverage
Residents can access 11Alive+ for continuous coverage of the winter storm. Details on how to stream the coverage are provided.
The Dangers of Sleet and Freezing Rain
While snow often captures public attention, freezing rain presents a more significant danger. It can create extremely hazardous driving conditions and lead to widespread power outages. The accumulation of ice on surfaces can cause widespread disruption and damage.
Quantifying the Threat: Ice Accumulation and Its Impacts
The impact of freezing rain is directly related to its accumulation. As freezing rain totals approach one-third of an inch, the likelihood of power outages increases, and travel becomes dangerously difficult, if not impossible, due to icy roads. With half an inch of ice accretion, widespread tree damage and power outages become more probable. Accumulations exceeding 0.75 inches represent a nightmare scenario, leading to extensive and potentially prolonged power outages.
Essential Preparations for Winter Weather
In anticipation of potential road impacts and power outages, stocking up on non-perishable food items is crucial. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency recommends a comprehensive checklist of essential items. Residents are advised to visit grocery stores to purchase these recommended supplies.
Preventing Frozen Pipes: Beyond Dripping Faucets
Homeowners are reminded that simply letting faucets drip may not be sufficient to prevent pipes from freezing during cold weather. A small, steady stream of water can help prevent significant damage and costly repairs. Experts advise that stagnant water can freeze and burst pipes at temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Message from the Commissioner of Agriculture
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper has released a video message offering guidance and information regarding the winter storm and its potential impact on the agricultural sector. The video is available for viewing.
