Atlanta, Georgia — Confidence is increasing that a major winter storm could bring significant impacts to north Georgia this weekend, including the potential for ice and snow that may disrupt travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, a strong winter storm is expected to move through the eastern United States this weekend. Forecast guidance shows high probabilities of impactful winter weather across north Georgia, while uncertainty remains farther south into central Georgia.
Current outlooks indicate a 60 to 80 percent chance of winter weather impacts across much of north Georgia, including the Atlanta metro area, with even higher probabilities closer to the Tennessee border. The primary concern at this time is ice, which could lead to hazardous road conditions and scattered power outages if freezing rain develops.
Forecasters caution that the exact southern extent of ice and snow, along with precipitation type and timing, remains uncertain. However, officials stress that now is the time to prepare due to the potential severity of impacts.
Major roadways such as Interstates 75, 85, 20, and 285 could become dangerous if ice accumulates, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and elevated ramps. Even light icing can quickly make untreated roads impassable and significantly slow emergency response times.
The National Weather Service urges residents to consider how they would remain safe if power is lost or travel becomes impossible for several days. Stocking essential supplies, reviewing travel plans, and monitoring forecast updates are strongly recommended.
For commuters, students, and weekend travelers, the highest risk period appears to be late Saturday into Sunday, when winter precipitation could be most impactful across north Georgia and the Atlanta area.
