Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for the entire state as Winter Storm Fern approaches Georgia. Forecasters are predicting freezing rain and sleet this weekend, with Athens currently facing extreme impacts from estimated projections of ice accumulation.
“So, folks need to start getting off the roads on Saturday night,” Kemp said. “If it’s bad where you are on Sunday, just do us a favor, do the State Patrol, DOT, all the other folks, the utility crews if they’re out working, if you can just stay off the roads, that would be a big favor to us and keep everybody safe.”
Kemp said the state has already begun preparations for the storm. GEMA is coordinating with other agencies, the Department of Transportation (DOT) will start treating roads early Saturday morning, and chain saw crews are ready to be dispersed.
“We’re still early in this weather event’s impact on our state, but I can let you know that we’ll be monitoring this 24/7. We’ll certainly keep the public updated.”
GEMA Director Josh Lamb shares what Georgians can do before the storm hits.
“Make sure you have enough nonperishable food, water and medications for at least three days,” according to Lamb. “Make sure you have warm clothing, blankets, flashlights and batteries and update your first aid kit, and a way to keep you phone charged.”
The State of Emergency will run through Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Visit GEMA.georgia.gov for more information.
