ATLANTA — Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced how the state would be preparing for an upcoming winter storm.
A winter storm watch has been issued for most of north Georgia.
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According to the governor’s office, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), and all relevant state agencies will be monitoring the winter weather forecast and preparing for a storm system expected to enter Georgia later this week.
Kemp said he was instructing state agencies to work with local officials to determine the best ways to keep Georgians safe before the storm hits.
“As with any weather system that might impact Georgia communities, we are actively monitoring the approaching winter storm and taking action now to ensure our communities are prepared for any possible impact,” Kemp said in a statement. “Along with state agency leaders, I’m urging Georgians to stay weather aware, especially as they make plans for the coming days. Please make necessary arrangements to keep your family safe and stay tuned for more information as this storm approaches.”
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Here are steps state officials are taking to prepare for the winter storm they’re expecting.
Starting Thursday, the Georgia Department of Transportation will have vehicles and crews brining roads, particularly in the areas north of and along Interstate 20.
The governor’s office is encouraging Georgians to avoid traveling in the most impacted areas, if possible.
If you have to travel, the state said to leave plenty of space and clearance on the roads so GDOT crews can treat and clear them as needed for driver safety.
Additionally, the Motor Carrier Compliance Division will escort GDOT brining teams through the metro area and into northern Georgia up to the Tennessee line, while Department of Public Safety Troopers and Officers will be on standby across Georgia to answer service calls.
Government officials also provided winter weather preparedness guidance for residents, including:
- Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches.
- Keep heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
- Insulate your home and ensure doors and windows are sealed.
- Check and install a working carbon monoxide detector.
- Have backup heat sources like extra blankets, sleeping bags, or a wood-burning fireplace.
- Check your antifreeze, brakes, heater, tires, and wipers.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Carry an emergency ready kit with items like a portable phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction, and jumper cables.
- Use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Allow pipes to drip or insulate them to prevent freezing.
- Keep pets indoors and check on elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors.
You can find more preparedness information from the state online here.
GEMA/HS will also provide updates on weather conditions online and via social media, officials said.
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