CLARKESVILLE, Ga. – Habersham County Emergency Services is urging residents to prepare now for a potentially dangerous winter storm expected to move into the area early Saturday and linger into Monday afternoon.
Habersham County’s Emergency Management team held an internal weather briefing this afternoon at the county’s E911 center and said current forecasts call for a mix of snow, sleet and ice beginning around 7 a.m. Saturday and continuing through about 1 p.m. Monday, though the county cautioned that winter weather is unpredictable and conditions may change. Residents are encouraged to secure essential supplies now and plan to stay off the roads unless travel is required for an emergency.
Habersham EMS warned that ice accumulation could create extremely hazardous driving conditions and lead to roadway blockages caused by downed trees, power lines or weather-related debris. Residents were urged to stock food, water, medications, batteries and flashlights; fuel vehicles; and ensure alternative heating options are available. Those who heat with wood should confirm they have an adequate supply.
County officials also advised residents who rely on home oxygen or electrically powered medical equipment to make arrangements now, including ensuring oxygen cylinders are fully stocked. Prescription medication refills should be obtained as soon as possible.
“Our priority is the safety of our community,” said Jeff Adams, chief of Habersham County Emergency Services. “We are here to take care of our citizens, and we want everyone to take steps now to be prepared, remain cautious, and stay safe during this event.”
Residents were reminded to assume all downed power lines are energized and deadly, to avoid approaching them, and to report their locations immediately to dispatch.
Habersham Schools update
With the worst of the weather not coming until the weekend, Habersham County school officials said they are monitoring the forecast but will wait to make any decisions about potential closures.
Patrick Franklin, superintendent of Habersham County Schools, told Now Habersham the district will not decide on school operations until Friday at the earliest, noting the storm is expected to primarily impact the area over the weekend. Any changes to school operations will be communicated through the Habersham Schools First Alert app and the district’s official communication channels.
White County weather briefing
In neighboring White County, officials echoed similar concerns following a weather briefing with the National Weather Service.
White County Public Safety said there is moderate confidence in significant winter weather impacts this weekend, with freezing rain and ice posing the primary threat. Snow and sleet are also possible, particularly in far North Georgia. Strong winds of 20 to 30 mph, with higher gusts, could increase the risk of falling trees and widespread power outages.
White County officials said first impacts could begin Friday night, with the greatest impacts expected Saturday into early Sunday. Very cold temperatures are expected to follow, with Monday’s high near 30 degrees and overnight lows potentially dropping into the single digits, which could prolong hazardous conditions.
Because of White County’s mountainous terrain, steep roadways and rural areas—especially in higher elevations—some locations could become difficult or impossible to access during the storm. Officials warned that emergency responders may experience delays reaching certain areas if conditions deteriorate.
County and city agencies are planning heightened staffing, staging response equipment and preparing for extended operations, White County Public Safety said. Residents were urged to prepare for the possibility of extended power outages and limited travel lasting several days.
Officials in both counties strongly discouraged nonessential travel once winter weather begins, noting that keeping roads clear is critical for emergency response and public safety operations. Residents are urged to monitor official county communication channels, emergency alerts and local media for updates as the forecast evolves.
