Atlanta, Georgia, January 25, 2026
Governor Brian Kemp has declared a statewide State of Emergency for all counties in Georgia as a significant winter storm is anticipated to bring freezing precipitation. This proactive measure aims to ensure public safety and maintain essential services. North Georgia is specifically warned of dangerous conditions, including power outages and hazardous travel. Local jurisdictions, including Gwinnett County and Cobb Judicial Circuit, have also implemented emergency orders. Residents are encouraged to prepare adequately for the storm by stocking up and reviewing emergency plans.
Atlanta, Georgia
Governor Brian Kemp this morning declared a statewide State of Emergency for all Georgia counties, a decisive measure taken in anticipation of a significant winter storm poised to bring freezing precipitation across the state. This declaration, issued in the early hours, reflects a deep-seated concern for public safety and the orderly function of essential services as winter’s unpredictable touch draws near. The storm is expected to manifest with dangerous conditions, particularly for North Georgia, which remains under a winter storm warning.
The executive order mobilizes the full spectrum of Georgia’s state resources, authorizing their deployment for preparation, response, and recovery activities associated with the impending weather event. This proactive stance aims to ensure that communities across the state are as resilient as possible against the disruptions that freezing rain and plummeting temperatures can bring. State agencies have been engaged in rigorous planning, with Governor Kemp having directly consulted agency heads to coordinate efforts and leave no stone unturned in safeguarding the well-being of Georgia’s residents.
Local jurisdictions have mirrored the state’s vigilance, with Gwinnett County issuing a local emergency order two days prior, further underscoring the collective effort to mitigate the storm’s impact. Similarly, the Cobb Judicial Circuit has declared a judicial emergency, allowing for operational adjustments to ensure justice can continue without undue peril to those involved. Such actions at both state and local levels demonstrate a broad, coordinated commitment to public safety and operational continuity.
The forecast indicates a potential for widespread freezing precipitation, which could lead to treacherous travel conditions and the very real possibility of power outages across various regions. Residents are encouraged to prepare for these eventualities, ensuring homes are adequately stocked and emergency plans are in place. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) offers comprehensive resources and guidance for winter preparedness, urging citizens to review these materials and take personal responsibility in their readiness.
As the chill descends and the landscape awaits the approaching storm, the coordinated efforts of state and local authorities stand as a testament to the quiet, determined work undertaken to protect lives and maintain order. The moments preceding such natural events often call for a collective turning inward, a careful assessment of what is essential, and a shared resolve to navigate the challenges that nature, in its indifferent power, sometimes presents. It is in these times that the threads of community and mutual care are often most palpably felt, reminding us of our shared human condition beneath the vast, indifferent sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What action has Governor Brian Kemp taken regarding the upcoming winter storm?
A: Governor Brian Kemp this morning declared a statewide State of Emergency for all Georgia counties in anticipation of a significant winter storm expected to bring freezing precipitation across the state.
Q: What conditions are expected with this winter storm in Georgia?
A: The storm is expected to bring dangerous conditions, particularly for North Georgia, which remains under a winter storm warning, and has the potential for widespread freezing precipitation leading to treacherous travel conditions and power outages.
Q: What does the statewide State of Emergency authorize?
A: The executive order mobilizes the full spectrum of Georgia’s state resources, authorizing their deployment for preparation, response, and recovery activities associated with the impending weather event.
Q: Have any local jurisdictions taken emergency actions?
A: Yes, Gwinnett County issued a local emergency order two days prior, and the Cobb Judicial Circuit has declared a judicial emergency.
Q: What are residents advised to do in preparation for the storm?
A: Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential power outages and other eventualities, ensuring homes are adequately stocked and emergency plans are in place. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) offers resources and guidance for winter preparedness.
Key Features of the Winter Storm Preparedness in Georgia
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| State of Emergency Declaration | Declared by Governor Brian Kemp this morning. | State-level |
| Counties Affected | All Georgia counties are under the statewide State of Emergency. | State-level |
| Expected Conditions | Freezing precipitation, dangerous conditions, potential for power outages. North Georgia under a winter storm warning. | State-level |
| Purpose of Declaration | Authorizes deployment of state resources for preparation, response, and recovery activities. | State-level |
| Local Emergency Orders | Gwinnett County issued a local emergency order two days prior. | Local |
| Judicial Emergency | Cobb Judicial Circuit declared a judicial emergency. | Local |
| Public Advisory | Residents advised to prepare for outages; GEMA offers winter preparedness guidance. | State-level |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
