State, county agencies, and Georgia Power warn of potential ice, power outages, and travel hazards
State, county agencies and Georgia Power warn of potential ice, power outages and travel hazards
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- Emergency management officials across Georgia are urging residents to prepare for possible winter weather this weekend, warning of travel disruptions, power outages, and dangerous conditions, particularly in north and parts of Middle Georgia.
State and local agencies say it is too early to pinpoint exact impacts by location, but confidence is growing that the system could produce significant effects.
State officials stress preparedness, not panic
Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency officials emphasized preparation over alarm, noting the potential for widespread travel issues, downed trees and power lines, and burst pipes this weekend into early next week.
In a statement, Governor Brian Kemp said he is working with state agencies to track the system and encouraged Georgians to take steps now to prepare.
Residents are encouraged to prepare their families by creating a communications plan, stocking at least three days’ worth of nonperishable food, water, and medications, and ensuring access to warm clothing, blankets, and charged phones. Officials also recommend preparing homes by covering outdoor pipes, sealing doors and windows, testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and safely using heaters and generators.
Drivers are urged to fill gas tanks and keep emergency kits in vehicles that include blankets, water, snacks, phone chargers, and first aid supplies.
Georgia Power monitoring possible ice impacts
Georgia Power officials said winter weather could move into the state this weekend, with some forecast models showing the possibility of freezing conditions or ice.
Ice poses a particular risk because it can add weight to power lines and trees, sometimes leading to outages. The company said its crews are monitoring conditions and are prepared to respond if weather impacts the power system.
Monroe County warns of potential major impacts
Monroe County Emergency Management officials said the forecast is complex due to the interaction of Arctic air and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, but confidence is increasing that widespread ice accumulation could occur. They warned of possible major travel disruptions, damage to trees and power lines, and lingering cold temperatures that could extend risks into early next week.
Freezing precipitation could begin as early as Friday afternoon, with Arctic air potentially prolonging hazardous conditions even after precipitation ends.
Middle Georgia agencies urge caution and planning
Dublin-Laurens County Emergency Management officials said winter impacts could begin Friday afternoon and last through Monday morning, with the greatest effects expected Saturday and Sunday. While north Georgia faces the highest risk, officials cautioned that Middle Georgia could also experience travel and infrastructure issues.
Houston County Emergency Management officials urged residents not to focus on long-range forecast numbers, noting that weather models represent possibilities, not certainties. They stressed that even small amounts of ice in Middle Georgia can produce severe impacts.
EMA officials said it’s important to prepare now for the possibility of power outages lasting several days and advised residents to stay off roads if freezing rain develops, noting that even emergency vehicles may struggle in icy conditions.
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