Winter Storm Watch expanded to include more Middle Georgia counties

Snow and dangerous wind chills possible in east central Georgia this weekend

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Jones, Baldwin, Twiggs, Wilkinson, Hancock and Washington counties, warning of potential snow and dangerously low temperatures beginning Friday evening.

The National Weather Service (NWS) announced the watch beginning Friday evening and will remain in effect through Sunday morning, covering portions of east central, north central, and northeast Georgia.

Accumulating snow and high winds

Total snow accumulations of up to two inches are possible within the watch area. In addition to the precipitation, residents should prepare for gusty conditions, as wind speeds could reach as high as 35 mph.

The combination of snow and wind is expected to create slippery road conditions, which may significantly impact travel throughout the weekend.

Dangerous wind chills expected

While snow is the primary concern for travelers, extreme cold will pose a threat to those outdoors. According to the NWS, wind chills are expected to drop significantly:

Saturday: Wind chills will range from 5 degrees below zero to the lower teens.

Saturday Night into Sunday: Temperatures will plummet further, ranging from 10 degrees below zero to the single digits above zero.

Precautions should be taken to protect people, pets, and pipes from the incoming Arctic air.