Hazardous Road Conditions: State of Emergency and Black Ice Alert in Atlanta

Sunday Travel Advisory: State of Emergency and Extreme Cold Warning

Atlanta commuters and residents are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel today, Sunday, February 1, 2026. Following a significant winter weather event, Governor Brian Kemp has issued a statewide State of Emergency that remains in effect through February 6. While snowfall has tapered off, the primary concern this morning is the risk of refreezing and dangerous black ice. An Extreme Cold Warning is currently in effect for the entire metro area until 1:00 PM, with wind chills expected to dip between -5°F and 5°F.

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) reports that while interstates and major state routes have been treated, bridges, overpasses, and shaded patches remain highly susceptible to slick spots. Motorists who must venture out are advised to reduce speeds significantly and allow extra stopping distance. GDOT crews, alongside HERO and CHAMP units, remain on 24-hour duty to treat roads and assist stranded drivers. If you encounter a patch of ice, do not slam on your brakes; instead, lift your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction of the skid.

MARTA Service Disruptions and Rail Changes

Public transit users should prepare for a modified schedule as MARTA continues to manage weather-related impacts and scheduled facility maintenance. For those relying on the rail system today, please take note of the following changes:

• Red Line: Service is currently only operating between North Springs and Lindbergh. Passengers traveling further south must transfer at Lindbergh Center.
• Green Line: Service is restricted to the segment between Bankhead and King Memorial. Transfer at King Memorial for Blue Line connections.
• Five Points Station: The East-West center platform is currently open for Southbound transfers only. Passengers must exit on the right-hand side for Northbound service or to exit the station.
• Atlanta Streetcar: Service remains suspended due to ongoing utility repairs. Shuttle vans are providing service at all streetcar stops on the normal schedule.

Downtown Traffic: Marathon Reroutes and Special Events

Significant traffic disruptions are expected in Downtown Atlanta today due to the Hot Chocolate 5K/15K Marathon. Reroutes and road closures are in effect from 5:00 AM until 5:00 PM across various locations. MARTA bus routes #21 and #107 are among those heavily impacted by these detours. Furthermore, heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic is expected near State Farm Arena for the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live event at 2:30 PM, and near the Fox Theatre for MJ The Musical performances. We recommend using the MARTA rail system to reach these venues to avoid surface street congestion and icy parking decks.

Ongoing Roadworks and Work Zones

While some construction has been paused due to the weather, shoulder closures persist on I-85 Northbound near Riverdale Road for light pole installation. Additionally, preparation for the SR 400 Express Lanes project continues with shoulder closures between Holcomb Bridge Road and Mansell Road. Drivers should stay alert for slow-moving brine trucks and snowplows that remain active across the interstate network.