Winter Storm Fern: Black Ice and Major Ramps Closures Disrupt Monday Morning Commute

Hazardous Road Conditions and Black Ice Warnings

Commuters across the Atlanta metro area are facing a treacherous start to the week as the region deals with the lingering effects of Winter Storm Fern. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has issued a severe weather advisory for Monday morning, warning of widespread black ice, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas north of the I-20 corridor. While GDOT crews have applied millions of gallons of brine to state routes, freezing temperatures overnight have caused remaining moisture to refreeze, making travel extremely dangerous.

Several major arteries have already reported significant disruptions:

• I-285 and GA-400 Interchange: The north and south collector-distributor ramps from I-285 East to GA-400 (Exit 26) at Glenridge Drive remain closed following multiple accidents on icy bridges. Traffic is being diverted onto Glenridge Drive and the Glenridge Connector.
• GA-400 South: Sandy Springs Police have issued traffic alerts for flooding and icing south of Northridge Road.
• Highway 52 and US 441: Fort Mountain is currently closed due to heavy ice accumulation, affecting travel near Chatsworth.

MARTA Operating on Limited 'Lifeline' Schedule

MARTA has implemented its inclement weather service plan for Monday, January 26. Rail service on the Red, Gold, Blue, and Green lines is running at a reduced frequency, with trains arriving every 20 minutes to prevent tracks from icing over. Commuters should note the following service modifications:

• Suspended Bus Service: All standard bus routes are suspended with the exception of specific "lifeline" routes serving medical facilities. Routes currently operating include 6, 8, 19, 40, 107, 110, 111, 123, and 196.
• Route 185 Alert: The lifeline service for Route 185 (Alpharetta) is currently suspended due to hazardous road conditions in the northern suburbs.
• Streetcar Service: The Atlanta Streetcar is temporarily suspended. One shuttle van is currently servicing the alignment on a 30-minute schedule.

Widespread Service Disruptions and Closures

Beyond the roads, the storm has caused significant impacts on local infrastructure. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has reported over 1,000 flight cancellations today, with Delta Air Lines particularly affected. Locally, the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and DeKalb County have suspended all garbage and recycling pickup for Monday to prioritize road safety.

Government offices in Sandy Springs and Union City are closed today, and DeKalb County government buildings will remain closed through Tuesday. Residents are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel while crews continue to treat and clear the interstates.