Friday, January 23, 2026–7:30 a.m.
-Staff reports-
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect until Monday morning.
Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total ice accumulations between a tenth of an inch and three-quarters of an inch are possible. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.
Expect power outages and tree damage due to the ice. Travel could be impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute.
Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.
For the home, make sure you have flashlights, batteries, and warm blankets in case of power outages.
Have extra food, baby supplies, pet supplies, and other essentials.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has issued a State of Emergency
Governor Brian P. Kemp declared a statewide State of Emergency today ahead of Winter Storm Fern’s impact on the state this weekend. The Governor also directed the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to activate the State Operations Center (SOC) and mobilize any needed resources to address any potential needs around the state. The State of Emergency will run through January 29, 2026.
“As forecasts continue to evolve, Georgians should be prepared for freezing precipitation that causes dangerous conditions and the potential for damage and power loss beginning Saturday,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “I have been working closely with state and local officials to ensure we are prepared for all scenarios. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) will begin treating roadways ahead of the storm’s initial impact, and — along with our emergency management and public safety teams — they will be working around the clock throughout this weather event. I’m urging all Georgians to take necessary precautions now to ensure their families and pets can stay safe, warm, and fed over the coming days.”
The State of Emergency allows for the Georgia Department of Defense to provide up to 500 Georgia National Guard troops, should they be needed for preparation, response, and recovery efforts. Among other provisions, the State of Emergency order also prohibits price gouging; suspends hours-of-service limitations for commercial vehicle operators involved in response activities; and temporarily increases weight, height, and length limits for commercial vehicles transporting essential supplies. Access the full State of Emergency Executive Order here.
You can also watch the latest briefing from the National Weather Service below:
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