Winter Weather Alert: Georgia Declares State of Emergency

News Summary

Georgia is preparing for a significant winter storm with icy conditions expected. Governor Brian Kemp has declared a statewide State of Emergency to ensure residents are ready for possible disruptions. Many counties are under winter weather advisories and warnings. School and business closures are already affecting the state, with certain public facilities shutting down to prioritize safety. Drivers are urged to avoid non-essential travel as the Georgia Department of Transportation warns of temporary road closures. Residents are encouraged to stay warm and informed as the storm approaches.

Winter Weather Alert: Georgia Declares State of Emergency

As the chill of winter sets in, Georgia is bracing itself for what’s forecasted to be a significant winter storm. With icy conditions expected to sweep across the state on Tuesday, Governor Brian Kemp has taken proactive measures by declaring a statewide State of Emergency. This declaration is primarily aimed at preparing residents for the weather disruptions that could follow the incoming storm.

What to Expect: Winter Weather Warnings and Advisories

Dozens of counties across Georgia find themselves under either a winter weather advisory or a more severe winter storm warning. Residents should keep a close watch on weather updates as the storm approaches. The forecast suggests the likelihood of a mixed bag of snow, ice, and freezing rain, which could accumulate anywhere from a trace to a few inches—especially in areas south of Interstate 20.

With temperatures expected to dip into the low 20s on Tuesday morning, it’s a good idea for everyone to stay warm and stay informed. The snowfall is predicted to taper off by early Wednesday morning, so the worst might be over by then, but still, residents are urged to be cautious.

School and Business Closures: What’s Affected?

In light of the frigid forecast, numerous school districts and businesses are taking precautionary steps. Many have announced delays or complete closures to ensure safety for staff and students. Zoo Atlanta plans to remain closed on Tuesday, and similar closures have been announced at the Georgia Safari Conservation Park in Madison, which will also shut its doors on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

Additionally, Atlanta Botanical Garden will close both its Midtown Atlanta and Gainesville locations on Tuesday. In DeKalb County, all government offices, senior centers, libraries, and recreational facilities will be closed. The meetings that were scheduled for the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners have been switched to a virtual format, ensuring that some governmental functions can continue while keeping everyone safe.

It is important for all residents to check on appointments, as all DeKalb Public Health regional health centers will also be shuttered on Tuesday. Clients will receive notifications regarding rescheduling. In other parts of the state, the City of Atlanta’s government offices will close and employees will transition to working virtually, with city-sanctioned events and Department of Parks and Recreation programs also getting canceled.

Transportation & Road Conditions: Caution is Key

With road safety in mind, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has put out alerts regarding temporary closures on certain state routes due to severe winter conditions. Drivers using the Interstate 75 South Metro Express Lane will find it closed for Peach Pass users beginning Monday night until weather conditions improve. GDOT is urging all drivers to avoid non-essential travel during winter weather events, as conditions may worsen quickly.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Warm!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Georgia Warms Up After Record Snowfall and Icy Conditions
Churches in Georgia Cancel Services Due to Winter Storm
Winter Storm Hits Metro Atlanta Hard
Winter Storm Causes School Disruptions in Georgia
Historic Winter Storm Disrupts Gulf Coast States
Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene Faces Heartbreak with Closures
Atlanta Gears Up for Another Winter Blast
Winter Weather Advisory Hits Atlanta Area
Winter Weather Advisory Causes School Closures in Georgia
State of Emergency in Georgia Due to Winter Weather

Additional Resources

• WSB-TV: Georgia School Districts’ Closures
• FOX 5 Atlanta: Storm Alert Day Closures
• 11Alive: School District Plans for Closures
• Decaturish: Governor Kemp Declares State of Emergency
• 11Alive: Atlanta Public Schools Closures
• Wikipedia: Winter Weather
• Google Search: Winter weather Georgia
• Google Scholar: Winter Weather
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Weather
• Google News: Winter Storm Georgia