Metro Atlanta is currently under an ice storm warning, and residents are bracing themselves for severe winter weather this weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning that could lead to widespread power outages and render travel nearly impossible. This alert applies to all areas in Georgia north of Interstate 20, including Atlanta, and will be in effect from 1 p.m. on Saturday until 10 a.m. on Monday. Forecasts predict that up to one inch of ice may accumulate, accompanied by wind gusts ranging from 20 to 30 miles per hour.
The NWS warns that even a small amount of ice can significantly impact road safety, making travel hazardous. In anticipation of the storm's effects, many schools in the Atlanta area have already canceled weekend activities, and the list of event cancellations continues to grow. The storm's impact could also interfere with Monday morning commutes as people return to work.
Following the winter storm, Arctic air will move into the region, which may prolong the risk of power outages and dangerous road conditions for several days afterward.
This winter storm is part of a larger weather system affecting approximately half of the U.S. population, which equates to more than 170 million people. The impending storm threatens significant damage, extensive power failures, and dangerously low temperatures across a wide swath of the country. From the Southern Rockies to New England, residents should brace for a mix of heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and sleet lasting through Monday.
Even after this storm passes, forecasters predict a surge of frigid air will sweep across areas from the Southern Plains to the Northeast in the following week. Experts have noted that the potential damage from this storm, particularly in areas heavily impacted by ice, could resemble the devastation typically associated with a hurricane. Many regions are currently under various winter storm or cold weather alerts.
In preparation for the incoming ice storm, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has invested about $4 million in new multi-functional equipment vehicles (MTEs). These advanced machines are capable of performing multiple tasks simultaneously, such as sweeping runways and applying de-icing agents. Gus Hudson, the airport's general operations manager, expressed optimism that these new vehicles would significantly reduce runway clearing times. Previously, it took about 30 to 45 minutes to clear a runway, but now, they anticipate completion in just 15 minutes.
This weekend marks the first deployment of this new equipment, which arrived just before the new year. Additionally, the airport has prepared other winter resources and activated its Emergency Operations Center in anticipation of the storm’s effects.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency for all counties, effective immediately and lasting through mid-next week. This declaration allows for the mobilization of resources across state agencies and includes measures to prevent price gouging during the storm. It also temporarily increases the height, weight, and length limits for commercial vehicles transporting essential supplies. Furthermore, the order authorizes the activation of up to 500 members of the Georgia National Guard to assist if necessary.
Kemp stated that the state Department of Transportation is set to begin salting roads early Saturday morning, and utility companies along with state crews armed with chainsaws are on standby to respond to emergencies.
In a virtual press briefing held while he is on a trade mission in Europe, Kemp advised residents to fill their gas tanks and ensure they have enough supplies at home to stay warm in case of power outages lasting one or two days.
Josh Lamb, director of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, emphasized the importance of being prepared for the storm. He noted that by taking proactive steps, Georgians can minimize risks, speed up recovery efforts, and, most critically, safeguard lives. Lamb recommended that families check in with each other and neighbors, create a communication plan, and stock up on food, water, medications, batteries, and heating supplies in case of power loss. He also advised maintaining a full gas tank in vehicles and having a first aid kit readily available.
Reports from WABE's DorMiya Vance and contributions from The Associated Press have been incorporated into this update.
