GEORGIA — Forecast models and meteorologists are increasingly warning of a possible winter storm that could affect much of Georgia this weekend, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain and dangerous cold temperatures. The potential for extended hazardous conditions has state officials, school districts and emergency planners preparing for significant travel disruptions and the possibility of school closures into next week.
FORECAST DETAILS: SNOW, ICE AND FREEZING RAIN
A developing storm system is expected to move into the Southeast late Saturday and continue through Sunday, as Arctic cold air pushes southward and clashes with moisture streaming across the region.
Meteorologists stress that all forms of winter precipitation — including snow, sleet and freezing rain — are possible at different locations across Georgia during this period. Those in north and central Georgia are most likely to face the brunt of the storm’s wintry impacts, though uncertainty remains on exact timing, type of precipitation and amounts.
WHY GEORGIA COULD FACE SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS
Georgia’s infrastructure is not as well-equipped to handle accumulated snow and ice compared with northern states, meaning even modest snowfall or ice buildup can lead to major travel trouble. Freezing rain — which occurs when rain freezes on contact with cold surfaces — is particularly hazardous because it can quickly form a sheet of ice on roads, bridges and sidewalks.
POTENTIAL SCHOOL CLOSURES NEXT WEEK
School districts across Georgia evaluate weather-related closures based on several factors, including:
- Road surface conditions — ice and snow make bus routes and surface streets unsafe.
- Bridge and overpass slickness, which can occur even when main roadways appear passable.
- Temperatures lingering below freezing, which can keep ice in place for days after precipitation ends.
- Power outages and school building accessibility issues if ice accumulates on power lines or tree limbs.
Because some forecasts call for morning temperatures well below freezing following the weekend storm, districts may choose to close schools or delay openings Monday and possibly Tuesday to ensure student and staff safety. Particularly in rural areas or regions where road treatments are limited, conditions may not improve quickly.
Decisions on school closures are typically made late in the evening before or early the morning of the school day, once officials have the latest model output and road condition reports.
ADDITIONAL PREPARATIONS AND SAFETY ADVICE
Meteorologists and emergency preparedness officials urge residents to take steps now, including:
- Monitoring forecasts daily as the storm system evolves.
- Preparing emergency kits with food, water, medications and heat sources in case of extended power outages.
- Checking vehicles to ensure antifreeze, tires, battery and emergency equipment (shovel, blankets, ice scraper) are ready.
- Preparing homes by insulating pipes, disconnecting outdoor hoses, and trimming tree branches that could break under ice.
FORECAST UNCERTAINTY REMAINS
While the signal for winter weather is strengthening, forecasters emphasize that uncertainty remains high about exactly where snow and ice will fall and how much will accumulate. National and local weather agencies will continue refining forecasts through the week.
As the weekend approaches, residents, school officials and businesses are advised to stay tuned to the latest updates and prepare for a range of possible winter weather scenarios that could affect Georgia well into next week.
