Public Advisory: Winter Storm Emergency and Essential Service Modifications

Emergency State of Emergency and Ice Storm Warning

Following a declaration from Governor Brian Kemp, a State of Emergency is in effect for all 159 Georgia counties as of Saturday, January 24, 2026. The National Weather Service has issued an Ice Storm Warning for the metro Atlanta area, effective from 1:00 p.m. Saturday through 10:00 a.m. Monday. Meteorologists anticipate significant ice accumulations between one-quarter and one inch, which may result in downed trees and widespread power outages. Residents are strongly urged to avoid non-essential travel, as black ice is expected to make roads impassable through the weekend.

Transportation and Transit Modifications

The Metropolitan Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has implemented its inclement weather service plan for Saturday, January 24. Rail service is operating on a reduced schedule with trains arriving every 20 minutes. While the Atlanta Streetcar remains on its regular Saturday schedule with shuttle vans, the majority of bus routes are suspended. Only specific "lifeline" routes providing access to major medical facilities remain operational, including Routes 6, 8, 19, 40, 107, 110, 111, 123, 185, and 196.

Additionally, the Georgia Department of Transportation has closed all Express Lanes on I-75 and I-85 as of noon today. On-street parking is strictly prohibited on Hank Aaron Drive between Ormond Street and Haygood Avenue to facilitate ongoing MARTA Rapid A-Line construction and emergency vehicle access.

Public Facility and Service Closures

Local government agencies have announced the following modifications for Saturday, January 24:

• Fulton County: All library branches will close early at 4:00 p.m. Dialysis transportation services for seniors are suspended for the duration of the day.
• Cobb County: All county offices, courts, and facilities will close at 6:00 p.m. and remain closed through Monday.
• Educational Institutions: Kennesaw State University has closed both its Kennesaw and Marietta campuses as of 6:00 p.m. Saturday.

Health Advisories and Community Resources

The City of Atlanta will activate emergency warming centers beginning at 8:00 p.m. tonight at the Central Park, Selena S. Butler, and Old Adamsville Recreation Centers. In Gwinnett County, warming centers at Best Friend Park and Buford Senior Center will open at 4:30 p.m.

The Georgia Attorney General has invoked price gouging protections for essential goods, including fuel and heating supplies, active through January 29. Residents should also remain vigilant regarding public health; the Fulton County Board of Health continues to report widespread flu activity and recently confirmed a measles case in the region. Residents are encouraged to utilize virtual health appointments where possible during the storm.