Gov. Brian Kemp says Georgia agencies are prepared as wintry weather threatens weekend travel and services

State agencies move into winter-weather posture ahead of forecasted cold and possible snow or ice

Gov. Brian Kemp said Georgia is prepared for potential wintry weather expected to affect parts of the state over the weekend, as agencies monitor forecasts that could include freezing temperatures, snow, sleet or ice. The governor’s office said the state’s readiness posture emphasizes early coordination between transportation, emergency management and public safety agencies, with an emphasis on limiting travel if conditions deteriorate.

The preparations reflect lessons from prior cold-weather events that can rapidly create hazardous driving conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses, and can strain power and emergency response systems when ice accumulates on trees and power lines.

Road treatment and operational coordination

The Georgia Department of Transportation has used brining and other pre-treatment strategies during major winter-weather threats in recent years, focusing first on interstates and other high-traffic routes, as well as access corridors to hospitals and urgent care centers. In past winter-weather emergencies, state operations have also included coordinated escorts and traffic support to help crews pre-treat and clear roads while keeping responders safe.

State-level emergency management planning typically centers on staffing and resource coordination at the State Operations Center, which can be activated to manage cross-agency response. When winter weather threatens a broad geographic area, the state has previously authorized additional operational support, including the ability to deploy Georgia National Guard personnel if needed for preparation, response and recovery tasks.

What residents should plan for

Wintry precipitation can produce a mix of hazards that extend beyond snowfall totals. Even light freezing rain can create widespread slick spots, and refreezing overnight can create black ice after daytime melting. Extended periods of subfreezing temperatures can also increase the risk of frozen or burst pipes, while power interruptions are more likely when ice loads build on power lines and trees.

• Travel risk may increase quickly, especially on elevated surfaces such as bridges, ramps and overpasses.
• Cold temperatures can persist after precipitation ends, allowing ice to linger and refreeze.
• Localized power outages and downed tree limbs are possible where ice accumulates.

State officials urged residents to remain weather-aware through the weekend and to make household and travel preparations in advance of deteriorating conditions.

Household safety reminders

Officials have repeatedly emphasized practical steps during winter-weather threats: keep adequate heat sources available, use generators only outdoors and away from doors and windows, maintain working carbon monoxide detectors, and protect plumbing during prolonged cold spells by insulating exposed pipes and allowing faucets to drip when temperatures plunge.

Updates on road conditions and any state operational changes are expected as forecasts narrow and potential impacts become clearer.