Snowfall Alert: North Georgia Braces for Heavy Snow and Bitter Cold
The northern regions of Georgia are experiencing a winter storm, with snow already falling and accumulating in some areas. A winter storm warning and winter weather advisory are in effect for north Georgia until Sunday, indicating the potential for significant snowfall.
Severe Weather Team 2, led by Meteorologist Brian Monahan, is providing live updates on the snow's impact across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. According to Monahan, the eastern parts of the state will bear the brunt of the storm, with 3-6 inches of snow possible in those areas. In the west, snowfall will gradually diminish as you approach the Alabama state line, but some accumulation is still expected.
As the snow continues, very cold temperatures and strong winds will persist throughout the weekend. Wind gusts of 30-40 mph will create blowing snow and reduced visibility, making travel hazardous. An extreme cold warning is in effect from 7 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, emphasizing the need for warmth and protection for both people and pets.
Emergency Management officials in Gwinnett County have begun treating four-lane roads for snow, and they will later move on to two-lane roads. Residents are urged to stay home if possible to allow crews to treat the roads effectively. Hall County and areas northeast, including the north Georgia mountains, are already experiencing heavy snowfall, and untreated roads can quickly become dangerous due to the cold temperatures.
The heavy snow band is currently moving through Buford, Suwanee, and Sugar Hill, and it has started to stick in Gwinnett County, as reported by Triple Team Traffic's Mike Shields. As of 7:08 a.m., 576 flights have been canceled, and 53 have been delayed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
The cold temperatures will enable the snow to stick to the ground, making driving conditions challenging on secondary and untreated roads, especially as the snowfall intensifies. Meteorologist Monahan predicts that areas west of metro Atlanta will see a light dusting, with half an inch to 2 inches in some spots. Metro Atlanta could experience 1-2 inches, with up to 3 inches in isolated areas. The eastern regions, particularly around Gainesville and Athens, will see heavier snowfall, with 3-4 inches or more expected.
GDOT spokesperson Natalie Dale confirms that snow plows are strategically positioned in key locations, ready to tackle the snowfall. They will monitor the storm's progress and adjust their operations as snow accumulates, ensuring that Georgians are informed about hazardous road conditions.
As of 4:37 a.m., Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologist Brian Monahan reports that snow is falling in the north Georgia mountains, with a noticeable covering in places like Blairsville. More snow is on its way, and the team will continue to provide live updates on the storm's path and impact.
