ATLANTA — As a formidable winter system known as Winter Storm Fern approaches the Southeast, state and local officials in Georgia are urging residents to prepare for potentially dangerous weather conditions that could bring freezing rain, sleet, snow, and widespread ice accumulation over the coming days. The storm has already prompted a statewide State of Emergency declaration and expanded Winter Storm Watches covering metro Atlanta and much of North Georgia.
This marks the latest winter weather threat to hit the region, and forecasts show that even relatively modest amounts of ice could have serious impacts on travel, infrastructure, and power availability in the coming days.
Gov. Kemp Declares State of Emergency
On Thursday, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp formally declared a State of Emergency for all counties in the state as preparations ramped up across government agencies, utility providers, and emergency responders. The declaration authorizes expanded resources for response efforts and remains in effect through late January.
In announcing the action, Kemp emphasized both caution and preparedness:
“The winter storm watch is in effect for North Georgia from Friday evening through Monday morning,” Kemp said in a statewide press briefing. “We think we’ll experience significant snow, sleet and or freezing rain possible in these counties throughout the weekend, and that’ll start early Saturday morning.”
He also highlighted that up to 500 National Guard troops could be mobilized to support response operations if needed, and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel once the storm begins.
Officials Warn of Ice, Travel Hazards, and Power Risks
Forecasters and emergency officials have focused particular attention on the threat of ice accumulation, which can make roadways treacherous, bring down tree limbs, and increase the likelihood of power outages by adding weight to utility lines — a concern that resonates deeply in the South, where winter weather infrastructure is more limited than in northern states.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for much of North Georgia — including metro Atlanta and surrounding counties — with watches remaining in effect from early Saturday through Monday morning.
Local meteorologists echoed the seriousness of the forecast. According to FOX 5 Atlanta’s Storm Team, the risk of freezing rain and ice “is going to be our biggest weekend threat.” Storm Team Chief Meteorologist David Chandley noted that even hours of freezing rain can lead to what he described as a “crippling” ice event, with enough accumulation to down trees and power lines if temperatures remain low.
Officials Urge Personal Preparedness
State emergency management officials have stressed preparation, but not panic. Josh Lamb, Director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), advised residents to prepare their homes and vehicles for winter conditions:
“Take precautions, don’t panic, and please stay informed and stay off the roads whenever possible,” Lamb said in an online briefing. “Filling cars with gas, stocking emergency supplies, and planning for possible power outages can help families stay safe this weekend.”
Officials have also encouraged residents to build emergency kits with at least three days’ worth of food, water, medications, and supplies, and to make plans for children, pets, and elderly family members who may need extra care during prolonged severe weather.
Utility Providers Ready for Response
Georgia Power officials are also preparing crews statewide to respond if ice or snow causes outages, urging customers to stay aware of safety guidance and to report downed lines immediately. Their public messaging includes concrete safety advice, such as avoiding contact with fallen wires and giving utility workers room to operate.
The utility’s readiness and communication strategies reflect a broader push by state partners — including the Georgia Department of Transportation, which is staging brine trucks and other road-treatment equipment ahead of the storm — to minimize disruptions and accelerate recovery.
Winter Storm Uncertainty — But Serious Threat
While forecasts are never certain so far in advance, meteorologists have pointed to a pattern that could deliver significant wintry weather across Georgia over several days. The storm is part of a larger system sweeping from the South into parts of the Northeast, carrying the potential for heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain across multiple states.
National Weather Service forecasters warn that the exact mix of precipitation — from snow to ice — will hinge on how temperatures align with moisture, meaning even small shifts could dramatically increase impacts on local travel and infrastructure.
Community Response and Preparedness
Across metro Atlanta, residents have already begun preparing by stocking up on essentials and adjusting travel plans. Some recalled strategies from past storms, while others took a first serious look at winter weather preparedness.
As the weekend nears, state leaders continue to emphasize the importance of staying informed, planning early, and prioritizing safety — especially as Georgia faces a winter storm scenario that could test the region’s readiness long before the heart of winter typically arrives.
