Georgia shoppers stock up on essentials ahead of winter weather

As winter weather approaches, shoppers across metro Atlanta are focusing on the basics without overwhelming store aisles.

(NBC)- As winter weather approaches, shoppers across metro Atlanta are focusing on the basics — bread, milk, snacks, and emergency supplies — without overwhelming store aisles.

At a Walmart in Chamblee, shopper Cristi McLean said she was picking up only what her household needs.

“They ran out of bread and snacks and milk, so I’m just getting the little essentials that we need,” McLean said. “Once it starts raining, I’m in — ’cause y’all don’t know how to drive out here.”

McLean, a New York transplant, said she didn’t need a full cart, noting she had already stocked up on emergency supplies. “I got batteries, I got lights, I got lanterns,” she said.

Store officials say they are prepared for the increased demand. Tyrice Douglas, a manager at the Chamblee location, said additional staffing and deliveries are helping keep shelves stocked.

“We have a lot of deliveries coming in that are going to bring extra milk, extra eggs, extra water to make sure that we maintain in-stock for the customers,” Douglas said.

Douglas added that many shoppers are also looking for backup power options in case of outages. Items like flashlights and Sternos have been forecasted as high-demand products during the weather event.

Despite the preparations, shoppers reported that stores were not overcrowded — a welcome sight for those making last-minute stops.

McLean offered a reminder as conditions change: “Be considerate on the roads. Don’t be in a rush for anything. Wherever you’ve got to go, it’ll be there.”