Athens and surrounding counties are under a hazardous weather outlook. The National Weather Service is issuing a winter storm watch for portions of North and Central Georgia. Clarke, Barrow, Jackson, Madison, Oconee and Oglethorpe counties are included. Forecasters are calling for rain mixed with and changing to snow Tuesday morning in some areas.
Accumulations of over two inches is possible in the higher elevations of the north Georgia mountains.
Dr. John Knox is a professor geography at UGA. He says this storm should not cause any lingering problems for Athens.
“The most important thing is listen to the experts, that’s the National Weather Service, and be aware that this will be a quick event,” Knox said. “It’s happening on the back side of a cold front, so if you do see snow, it’s not going to last very long.”
Governor Brian Kemp announced he is closing state offices in 35 counties Tuesday as a result of the potentially severe weather. Kemp said that based on the forecast by the National Weather Service and the recommendations of emergency management personnel, the offices will be closed to all non-essential employees. The governor said icy roads are his main concern.
Athens and the surrounding areas are not included on that list.
Knox says he does not expect icy conditions to cause widespread concerns in our area.
“We won’t be getting freezing rain from the event, so the question would be whether there will be enough rain to freeze overnight because once the cold air comes through, it’ll be pretty cold, we’re get down well into the 20s.
Knox says there is some potential for slick spots.
“So then the next morning, Wednesday morning there might be some ice on the roads, but it’ll be different than freezing rain that coats everything. “This would be more like puddles or maybe bridges that get wet and then get cold quickly.”
Very cold temperatures are expected Wednesday and Thursday mornings with wind chills in the dingle digits and lower teens.
Georgia Power is monitoring the changing weather conditions and is ready to respond to any service interruptions as quickly and safely as possible. Customers are encouraged to visit GeorgiaPower.com/WinterPrep for useful information on a variety of winter weather topics, including Watches vs. Warnings, Staying Connected, Electrical Safety, Winter Road Ready, and more.
Tripe A Auto Club Group is advising motorists to be cautious as the winter storm approaches. The organization urges drivers to call 511 to check traffic conditions, prepare vehicles for winter driving, reduce speed on the road, and leave extra space between vehicles. For more tips, visit www.AAA.com.
