Atlanta, GA – Emergency officials across Georgia are urging residents to begin preparing today for potential ice storms this winter, emphasizing that freezing rain often causes more damage than snowfall. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), even light ice accumulation can snap tree limbs, bring down powerlines, and turn highways across North and Central Georgia into dangerous travel zones.
According to NOAA, a thin glaze of ice is enough to overload weakened branches and disrupt travel along major routes, including I-75, I-85, I-20, and GA-400. Georgia’s combination of dense tree coverage, rolling terrain, and heavy commuter traffic makes the region especially vulnerable when freezing rain develops. With temperatures fluctuating this week, emergency managers say today is the ideal time to complete preparation steps.
According to the National Weather Service, residents should begin by trimming weak or damaged limbs around homes, driveways, and sidewalks. These branches often fall first once ice begins to accumulate. NOAA also cautions drivers not to raise windshield wipers before storms, as they can freeze to the glass and snap; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Officials encourage families to store at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential prescriptions. Ice storms can cause prolonged power outages—particularly in heavily wooded suburban areas throughout Metro Atlanta, Athens, Gainesville, and the foothills. Residents are also urged not to park vehicles under trees, where ice-coated branches may fall suddenly.
To prepare for potential outages, emergency managers recommend fully charging phones, flashlights, backup batteries, and other essential devices today. Homeowners who rely on generators should safely store extra gasoline and conduct a test run. Stocking rock salt or ice melt can also help reduce slip hazards around walkways, steps, and driveways.
“Ice storms can create dangerous and lasting disruptions across Georgia,” the NWS said. “Preparing today is the best way to stay safe this winter.”
