Governor Kemp Declares State of Emergency for Metro Atlanta as Winter Storm Arrives

Governor Kemp Declares State of Emergency for Metro Atlanta as Winter Storm Arrives

On this Saturday, January 31, 2026, the City of Atlanta and surrounding North Georgia counties are operating under a State of Emergency declared by Governor Brian Kemp. The executive order, which remains in effect through February 6, was issued in anticipation of a significant winter storm expected to bring snow and freezing temperatures to the region. State officials have mobilized resources to support local infrastructure and emergency response teams as the storm moves through the Interstate 75 corridor.

Mayor’s Office and AFCEMA Activate Emergency Protocols

Local government activity today is centered on crisis management and public safety. The Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Management Agency (AFCEMA) has moved into full activation, coordinating with Mayor Andre Dickens’ administration to monitor weather conditions and roadway safety. While the Atlanta City Council has no formal sessions scheduled for the weekend, city leaders are focused on the operational execution of the winter weather plan. This includes the deployment of salt and brine trucks by the Department of Public Works to treat high-traffic thoroughfares and routes to major medical facilities.

Mayor Dickens has emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, with AFCEMA managing efforts across 15 different municipalities in Fulton County. Officials are also operating emergency warming centers throughout the city to provide refuge for residents without adequate heating. These centers are part of a broader effort to prevent cold-related injuries as temperatures are forecast to stay below the freezing mark for the duration of the day.

Federal Shutdown and Local Impacts

In addition to the weather crisis, Atlanta government officials are monitoring the developments of a partial federal government shutdown that began at midnight. While most federal offices in the city are closed for the weekend, local leaders are assessing the potential long-term impacts on the thousands of federal employees based in the metro area. Legislative negotiations in Washington continue to be a point of concern for city planners who rely on federal partnerships for transit and housing programs.

Widespread Closures of Public Facilities

The severity of today’s storm has resulted in the suspension of various government services and the closure of major cultural institutions:

• Fulton County has closed all library branches and the animal shelter for the day.
• Clayton County administrative offices, courts, and parks have canceled all events and operations.
• Public safety officials have advised residents to avoid all non-essential travel due to icing on the roads.
• Major attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden, are closed today to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.

Government leaders will continue to provide updates via official social media channels, including the Fulton Alerts Community Notifications (FALCON) system. A reassessment of city and county operations is expected on Monday morning.