Winter Storm Alert: Heavy Snow and Major Lane Closures Impacting Atlanta Commutes

Widespread Disruptions Expected as Winter Storm Gianna Hits Atlanta

Atlanta residents are facing hazardous conditions this morning as Winter Storm Gianna moves through the metro area. With snow accumulating across the city, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and local officials have issued urgent warnings for all non-essential travel. Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency, and road crews are working 12-hour shifts to manage what is expected to be a significant winter event for North and Central Georgia.

Major Roadway and Express Lane Closures

The morning commute is being heavily impacted by both weather and pre-planned safety closures. GDOT has confirmed that all Georgia Express Lanes, including the I-85, I-75 South Metro, and the I-75 Northwest Corridor lanes, will remain closed through at least midday Saturday. These closures are necessary to prevent accidents on elevated ramps, which are prone to icing in the current sub-freezing environment.

• I-285 Southbound: Three right lanes remain blocked near the Chattahoochee River bridge in Cobb County due to emergency pothole and bridge deck repairs. Commuters are advised to use I-75 as an alternate route, though heavy delays are expected.
• Interstate Conditions: Snow is expected to stick immediately to pavement due to very cold temperatures. Wind chills are forecasted to drop between -5°F and 5°F by Saturday evening, increasing the risk of black ice.
• Brining Operations: ATLDOT and GDOT crews are actively treating surface streets and interstates with brine, but overpasses and bridges remain treacherous. Drivers should reduce speeds and avoid sudden maneuvers.

MARTA Service Alerts and Cancellations

Public transit users should expect significant delays and numerous route modifications today. MARTA has announced a string of bus cancellations due to staffing and road safety concerns. Riders are encouraged to check digital signage at stations or the official app for the most current information before heading out.

• Bus Service: Multiple routes, including Route 3, 36, 51, and 60, have seen cancellations or significant detours this morning.
• Rail Service: While rail remains the most reliable option, the Red and Green lines are operating on modified schedules. Single tracking is currently in effect at the Brookhaven station, with all passengers boarding from the northbound platform.
• Five Points Station: The East-West center platform is open for southbound transfers only.
• Streetcar: Streetcar service is officially suspended; shuttle vans are currently servicing all regular stops along the downtown alignment to maintain connectivity.

Event Traffic and Safety Recommendations

Despite the weather, several major events remain on the schedule for today, which may draw additional traffic to the downtown and midtown areas. This includes Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live at State Farm Arena and MJ - The Musical at the Fox Theatre. Additionally, McCamish Pavilion will host the Georgia Tech versus North Carolina basketball game at 2:00 PM. Attendees are urged to allow for triple the normal travel time or use MARTA rail service where possible.

For those who must be on the roads, keep a significant following distance and stay in your vehicle if you become stranded. Warming centers have been opened at the Central Park Recreation Center and Selena S. Butler Park for those in need of shelter from the extreme cold.