Atlanta, Georgia, January 24, 2026
A newly issued Ice Storm Warning has been extended to metro Atlanta for the first time since 2014 as a significant winter weather system approaches. The National Weather Service forecasts substantial ice accumulation, posing hazardous conditions and raising concerns about power outages and dangerous travel. Residents are urged to prepare for the impending storm, which is expected to bring freezing rain throughout the weekend, making travel increasingly perilous.
Atlanta, Georgia
Ice Storm Warning Expands Across Metro Atlanta, Prompting Widespread Caution
An Ice Storm Warning has been extended to encompass metro Atlanta, marking the first such warning for the region since 2014, as a significant winter weather system approaches. The warning, issued by the National Weather Service, indicates the potential for substantial ice accumulation, which could lead to hazardous conditions and widespread disruptions across the metropolitan area and into northeast Georgia throughout the weekend. Residents are urged to prepare for potential power outages and dangerous travel conditions as the storm is expected to bring freezing rain to the area.
Evolving Forecast and Affected Regions
The latest forecast, updated on the afternoon of January 23, 2026, details the progression of the winter weather event. The Ice Storm Warning currently stretches across northeast Georgia and reaches southward, now including parts of metro Atlanta. Beyond the immediate metro area, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect, extending as far south as Henry and Newton counties, and eastward to include Clarke and Madison counties. This broad geographical scope underscores the potential for varied impacts across the state, from significant icing in the north to lesser, but still impactful, winter weather conditions further south.
Throughout the day on Friday, January 23, 2026, meteorologists tracked the storm’s developments closely. Initial model guidance had suggested a potential transition from freezing rain back to a cold rain for many areas near and south of metro Atlanta by Sunday afternoon, offering a measure of hope for a quicker thaw. However, the expansion of the Ice Storm Warning into the heart of the state suggests a more persistent threat of freezing precipitation for central and northern Georgia. Authorities have highlighted Cobb County as one of the areas requiring particular vigilance. The broader national context indicates that more than half of the United States is currently under a threat of winter weather conditions, illustrating the expansive nature of this atmospheric event.
Public Preparedness and Safety Measures
In anticipation of the storm’s arrival this weekend, officials have strongly advised residents to take proactive measures to ensure safety. The accumulation of ice on trees and power lines presents a considerable risk of power outages, and residents should prepare emergency kits that include flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, and a supply of non-perishable food and water. Travel is expected to become increasingly perilous as ice forms on roadways, making driving exceptionally hazardous. It is recommended that unnecessary travel be avoided once freezing rain begins, allowing emergency services and utility crews to operate more safely and effectively. The gravity of these warnings reflects the potential for serious inconvenience and danger to the populace. The quiet strength of communal foresight in preparing for such events often mitigates their harshest effects.
The expansion of the Ice Storm Warning serves as a sober reminder of winter’s formidable power, urging a communal vigilance and individual preparation. As the weekend unfolds, the focus remains on the safety and well-being of those within the affected zones, navigating the delicate balance between the natural world’s might and human resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current winter weather warning for metro Atlanta?
- An Ice Storm Warning has been extended to encompass metro Atlanta, marking the first such warning for the region since 2014.
- When was the latest forecast updated regarding this winter storm?
- The latest forecast was updated on the afternoon of January 23, 2026.
- What areas are included in the Ice Storm Warning?
- The Ice Storm Warning currently stretches across northeast Georgia and reaches southward, now including parts of metro Atlanta.
- Is there a Winter Weather Advisory in effect for other parts of Georgia?
- Yes, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect, extending as far south as Henry and Newton counties, and eastward to include Clarke and Madison counties.
- What are residents advised to do ahead of the storm?
- Officials have strongly advised residents to take proactive measures to ensure safety, including preparing for potential power outages and dangerous travel conditions.
- What is the broader national context of this winter weather event?
- More than half of the United States is currently under a threat of winter weather conditions.
Key Features of the Georgia Winter Weather Event
| Feature | Description | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Warning | Ice Storm Warning | State-level (Metro Atlanta, Northeast Georgia) |
| Secondary Warning | Winter Weather Advisory | State-level (Henry, Newton, Clarke, Madison counties) |
| Date of Latest Update | January 23, 2026 | State-level |
| Last Similar Event | First Ice Storm Warning since 2014 | State-level (Georgia, Metro Atlanta) |
| Expected Impact | Freezing rain, potential for power outages, dangerous travel | State-level |
| National Context | More than half of the US threatened by winter weather | Nationwide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Ice Storm Warning Issued for Northeast Georgia
Ice Storm Warning Issued for Georgia
Winter Storm Watch Issued for North Georgia Region
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.
