Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a statewide state of emergency as Georgia braces for the impacts of Winter Storm Fern this weekend.
The emergency order, which runs through Jan. 29, activates the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency and allows state leaders to mobilize resources ahead of what could be a prolonged and dangerous winter event.
“As forecasts continue to evolve, Georgians should be prepared for freezing precipitation that causes dangerous conditions and the potential for damage and power loss beginning Saturday,” Kemp said. “I have been working closely with state and local officials to ensure we are prepared for all scenarios.”
Kemp said the Georgia Department of Transportation will begin treating roads ahead of the storm and will work around the clock alongside emergency management and public safety teams.
“I’m urging all Georgians to take necessary precautions now to ensure their families and pets can stay safe, warm, and fed over the coming days,” he said.
What to expect
Forecasters say a major winter storm is likely to impact much of North Georgia, especially areas north of I-20. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Friday night through Monday morning, with freezing rain currently the main concern.
Wintry precipitation could begin Saturday afternoon and continue into Sunday evening. Bitter cold is expected to follow, with temperatures dropping into the teens and 20s by Monday morning and remaining very cold into Tuesday. Officials warn that prolonged freezing could lead to icy roads, burst pipes, and power outages, especially with gusty winds lingering into Monday.
State response
The emergency declaration allows up to 500 Georgia National Guard troops to be deployed if needed. It also bans price gouging, relaxes trucking rules for emergency supply deliveries, and temporarily increases size and weight limits for commercial vehicles hauling essentials.
GDOT crews are staging equipment and will focus on keeping major routes and access to hospitals passable. State troopers and other public safety teams will be positioned across Georgia, with additional crews ready to clear debris and assist communities if conditions worsen.
Officials continue to urge residents to limit travel during the storm, prepare for possible power outages, and closely monitor forecasts as conditions and impacts become clearer in the coming days.
NowGeorgia.com is closely covering this developing weather situation and will continue to provide updates throughout the storm.
