Atlanta, January 26, 2026
Atlanta’s MARTA continues to operate under a reduced schedule for rail and bus services in response to hazardous icy conditions. This change began as Winter Storm Fern impacted the area, leading to modifications aimed at ensuring commuter safety. While rail services run every 20 minutes, most bus routes are suspended, allowing only essential lifeline routes that connect to medical facilities. The community is urged to avoid road travel due to increased risks, highlighting the city’s resilience amidst adversity.
Atlanta
Public Transit Navigates Icy Grip, Reduced Service Continues Through Monday
Atlanta’s metropolitan public transportation system, MARTA, is continuing to operate with a significantly reduced schedule for both its rail and bus services through Monday, January 26, 2026. This measure is in response to the ongoing hazardous icy weather and freezing conditions that persist across the metropolitan area. The decision underscores a primary commitment to the safety of commuters, operational personnel, and the wider community amidst the challenges posed by compromised infrastructure and roadways.
Sustained Operational Adjustments
The adjustment to service began on Saturday, January 24, 2026, as the region braced for severe winter weather, known as Winter Storm Fern. As the icy conditions lingered, marked by persistent ice accumulation, widespread refreezing, and plummeting temperatures, the reduced service plan was extended through Monday. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks associated with the dangerous travel conditions that have materialized throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Details of Current Service Levels
For rail operations, trains are arriving approximately every 20 minutes across the system. To combat the threat of tracks icing over, out-of-service trains have been running continuously to maintain rail integrity. This consistent movement is a critical preventative step, safeguarding the operational capacity of the rail network even under duress.
Bus services have seen more substantial modifications. All regular bus routes are currently suspended, with the exception of a select number of designated lifeline routes. These essential routes include: 6 (Clifton Road/Emory), 8 (North Druid Hills), 19 (Clairmont/W. Howard Avenue), 40 (Peachtree Street/Downtown), 107 (Glenwood), 110 (Peachtree Road/Buckhead), 111 (Snapfinger Woods), 123 (Church Street), 185 (Alpharetta), and 196 (Upper Riverdale). The primary purpose of these operational routes is to ensure direct connectivity to major medical facilities and emergency rooms, acknowledging the critical needs that persist even during weather emergencies.
Additionally, MARTA Mobility (Paratransit) service is also operating on a reduced schedule. This service is available within a three-quarters of a mile radius of MARTA rail stations and the active lifeline bus routes, recognizing the unique mobility requirements of some residents.
Wider Community Impact and Response
The icy conditions have led to an Ice Storm Warning that was in effect for Atlanta and areas above Interstate 20 until 10:00 AM Monday. This severe weather has caused widespread disruption beyond public transit. Thousands of residents have experienced power outages, and numerous schools and colleges, alongside many city and state offices, have announced closures or shifted to remote operations for Monday. Public safety officials have strongly urged motorists to remain off the roads due to the high risk of hazardous conditions, including black ice, which can form unseen and quickly compromise safe travel.
In these moments, a community’s character is quietly revealed. The measured response of MARTA, in prioritizing safety over routine, reflects a prudent regard for human well-being. The temporary alterations to daily rhythms, while inconvenient, serve as a poignant reminder of our collective vulnerability to natural forces and the underlying necessity of robust, yet adaptable, infrastructure. Atlanta, a city of ceaseless movement, now observes a paused, reflective cadence, awaiting the thaw with a shared sense of patience and mutual consideration for one another’s burdens and resilience. The careful management of essential services during such times is not merely an act of logistics but an affirmation of civic responsibility, ensuring that even in stillness, the vital connections endure.
Frequently Asked Questions About MARTA Service Changes
-
Why is MARTA operating on a reduced schedule?
MARTA is operating on a reduced schedule due to ongoing hazardous icy weather and freezing conditions across the metropolitan area. -
When did the reduced MARTA service begin and how long will it last?
The reduced MARTA service began on Saturday, January 24, 2026, and is continuing through Monday, January 26, 2026. -
What is the frequency of MARTA rail service during this period?
MARTA rail trains are arriving approximately every 20 minutes. -
Which MARTA bus routes are operating?
All MARTA bus routes are suspended except for designated lifeline routes: 6, 8, 19, 40, 107, 110, 111, 123, 185, and 196. -
What is the purpose of the operating lifeline bus routes?
These lifeline bus routes provide direct service to major medical facilities and emergency rooms. -
How is MARTA Mobility (Paratransit) service affected?
MARTA Mobility (Paratransit) service is operating on a reduced schedule and is available within a three-quarters of a mile radius of MARTA rail stations and lifeline bus routes. -
What other impacts has the winter weather had on Atlanta?
Beyond transit disruptions, the winter weather has led to widespread power outages, closures of schools, colleges, and many city and state offices.
Key Features of MARTA’s Current Service Modifications (January 24-26, 2026)
| Service Type | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rail Service | Reduced Schedule | Trains arriving approximately every 20 minutes. Out-of-service trains run continuously to prevent track icing. |
| Bus Service | Significantly Reduced / Suspended | All routes suspended except for designated lifeline routes (6, 8, 19, 40, 107, 110, 111, 123, 185, 196). |
| Lifeline Bus Routes | Operational | Provide direct service to major medical facilities and emergency rooms. |
| MARTA Mobility (Paratransit) | Reduced Schedule | Available within three-quarters of a mile of MARTA rail stations and lifeline bus routes. |
| Duration of Changes | Through Monday, January 26, 2026 | Began Saturday, January 24, 2026, due to severe winter weather and ongoing icy conditions. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
State Officials Urge Georgians to Stay Off Roads Due to Ice
Severe Ice Storm Impacts Georgia Regions
North Georgia Faces Ice Storm Emergency
Georgia Grapples with Severe Ice Event; Officials Urge Residents to Shelter
Federal Emergency Disaster Declaration Approved for Georgia
Severe Winter Storm Hits North Georgia
Severe Ice Storm Hits Metro Atlanta and Northeast Georgia
North Georgia Prepares for Major Ice Storm and Cold Snap
Metro Atlanta Counties Open Warming Centers Amid Ice Storm Warning
North Georgia Grapples with Extensive Ice Accumulation and Power Outages
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.
