State emergency officials are urging Georgia residents to prepare for the coming winter storm. Fern is expected to bring significant impacts to north Georgia. Forecasters expect ice accumulations of one-quarter to one inch between Saturday afternoon and Sunday night.
GEMA Director Josh Lamb.
“Temperatures will drop below freezing Sunday evening and remain very cold all the way through Tuesday,” according to Lamb. “Prolonged freezing temperatures will cause roads to refreeze. Extreme cold watches and warnings will be possible on Monday night and Tuesday morning. Burst pipes will be possible with this level of extreme cold. Dangerous travel conditions are likely in the watch and warning areas as early as Saturday afternoon and will continue to worsen throughout the day on Sunday.”
Lamb says those hazardous road conditions could affect the Monday morning commute. He adds downed trees and power lines may cause extended power outages and debris issues.
“Before the storm hits, make sure your gas tank is full and prepare an emergency car kit including a first aid kit, cell phone charger, jumper cables, water and snacks and an ice scraper.”
He also advised the state’s motorists to avoid driving during the freezing weather.
“Starting tomorrow [Saturday], we ask that you stay off the roads as much as possible. Not only does staying off the roads ensure your safety, it ensures everyone’s safety and it allows Georgia DOT crews the time they need to be able to work on our roads.”
State parks are opening warming centers for those who need shelter. Visit GEMA.georgia.gov for information, storm updates, and more.
