
Less than two weeks ago, Atlanta faced a State of Emergency, several inches of snowfall, and icy, freezing temperatures. And now, another winter storm is headed our way, bringing even colder temperatures and more dangerous conditions. Here’s what to know about this week’s winter storm warning.
Georgia is in a State of Emergency
The first thing to know is that Governor Brian Kemp has issued another State of Emergency for Georgia, in preparation for the upcoming storm.
Kemp said,
Before the full force of the incoming winter weather arrives, many Georgians are already experiencing dangerously low temperatures ahead of expected freezing precipitation on Tuesday,
How cold is it going to be in Atlanta?
According to a report by 11Alive News,
Many parts of metro Atlanta could stay at or below freezing for more than 60 hours this week, which started Sunday evening.
On Wednesday, the low looks like it’ll be around 15 degrees–which is dangerously cold.
Will it snow again?
There is a large possibility that it will snow again, with some predictors indicating between 3-5 inches of snow on Tuesday, January 21st, 2025.
According to Atlanta News First,
This system will bring snow more to the south of Atlanta. A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for much of metro Atlanta and south Georgia, while a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for areas south of I-20.
How can I stay safe?
You know the drill–stay indoors, try your best not to travel in icy conditions, and stay WARM! Here are some tips from GEMA, the Georgia Emergency Management & Homeland Security Agency:
1. Have a readiness kit
Some items for your kit include:
- Water At least 3 gallons per person, for drinking and sanitation
- Food At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food
- Can opener For food, if kit contains canned food
- Radio Battery-powered or hand crank NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties For personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers To turn off utilities
- Local maps
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches In a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
- Pet food and extra water For your pet
- Prescription medications and glasses
2. Charge your devices
In case of a loss of power, make sure your devices are charged. If you are able, have an emergency charging option (ie your car, hand crank, generator, etc.)
3. Keep your food safe
Fill a gallon container with water and place them in the freezer to help keep food cold. If you lose power, try to open your refrigerator and freezer as little as possible to keep it cold inside.
4. Keep up to date on the storm
You will be able to keep up-to-date on all the winter storm happenings by listening to the NOAA Weather Radio. You can find the NOAA Weather Radio here.
5. Keep your home safe
GEMA recommends:
- Allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
- Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
** Never use an oven to heat your home. Never bring portable generators, camp stoves and grills into your home; they should only be used outside. Keep them at least 20 feet away from your home’s windows, doors and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
Stay warm, Atlanta! And stay off the roads!