An Arctic blast is headed towards Georgia, bringing with it bitterly cold temperatures and the threat of snow. Gov. Brian Kemp has wasted no time, declaring a State of Emergency in anticipation of the wintry weather expected to impact the state on Tuesday. With the FOX 5 Storm Team issuing a Storm Alert Day, residents are being urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.
The Executive Order accompanying the State of Emergency empowers the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency cGEMA/HSc to activate the State Operations Center cSOCc and deploy resources as needed to address potential effects of the impending severe weather. This State of Emergency will remain in effect through next Tuesday, January 28, as Georgia gears up for the cold front.
Why Declare a State of Emergency?
The decision to declare a State of Emergency is bolstered by the possibility of significant snowfall and icy conditions. A Winter Storm Watch is in place for 128 counties, covering South Georgia, Central Georgia, and Metro Atlanta along the I-85 Corridor. Areas under this watch may see up to 2 inches of snow accumulation from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, portions of South Georgia could face the brunt of freezing rain, with notable ice build-up expected.
The chilling aftermath of the storm will be felt on Wednesday, with low temperatures plunging to the teens in North and Central Georgia and the 20s in South Georgia. The wintry mix will persist into Wednesday, as temperatures struggle to rise above freezing. Thursday will bring a slight reprieve, with highs expected in the lower 40s, aiding in the melting of any remaining snow and ice.
Implications of the State of Emergency
Gov. Kemp emphasized the need for preparedness and safety in a press release on Monday, highlighting ongoing collaborations between state agencies to respond effectively to the inclement weather. Alongside activating resources, the State of Emergency prohibits price gouging, relaxes commercial vehicle restrictions for response activities, and permits adjusted weight limits for vehicles transporting essential supplies.
Government and public safety measures have swung into action, with state offices in Atlanta, including the State Capitol, closed on Tuesday, and employees advised to work remotely. The discretion to close offices extends beyond the capital, ensuring the safety of employees in other areas facing weather-related challenges.
As the storm looms, businesses and schools have begun announcing closures in anticipation of the wintry weather. Zoo Atlanta and the Atlanta Botanical Garden are among the first to adjust their schedules, with more institutions likely to follow suit as conditions deteriorate.
Winter Weather on the Horizon
The FOX 5 Storm Team sounded the alarm early, declaring a Storm Alert Day for the threat of snow across metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Meteorologist Jonathan Stacey detailed the impending cold snap and accompanying snow, cautioning that temperatures are unlikely to rise above freezing for the next couple of days.
A Winter Weather Advisory blankets the Atlanta metro area, while a Winter Storm Warning looms over Middle Georgia counties, with the southernmost areas likely to bear the brunt of the wintry conditions. Residents across the state are bracing for a mixture of snow and cold temperatures, with significant snowfall forecasted for various regions.
Looking Ahead
Residents are urged to keep a close eye on weather updates from the FOX 5 Storm Team, particularly regarding snowfall timing and impact. By downloading the free FOX 5 Storm Team app and following them on social media, individuals can stay informed about any changes in the forecast, potential closures, and the evolving weather situation.
As Georgia readies itself for the arctic blast, it's clear that preparedness and caution are paramount. With the State of Emergency in effect and storm preparations underway, residents are encouraged to prioritize safety and make necessary arrangements to navigate the wintry conditions ahead. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing weather situation unfolds.
