Introduction
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Ice accumulation of more than half an inch could cause downed power lines and downed trees throughout the area.
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Winter precipitation is expected to begin early Saturday and could affect the area into Monday morning.
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Residents have until sunset Friday to complete all emergency preparations to withstand possible multi-day power outages.
Atlanta – A high-impact winter storm is expected to sweep through northern Georgia this weekend, bringing the threat of heavy snow and ice accumulation that could cause widespread power outages and travel disruptions.
The FOX 5 Storm team is warning residents to prepare for a “long-term event” that begins Saturday and could last into Monday.
winter storm in georgia
what we know
A major winter storm system is moving toward the region, and the National Weather Service is predicting far-reaching winter weather Saturday and Sunday. While the exact track and intensity remain uncertain, the storm is expected to bring freezing rain, sleet and snow.
Atlanta ice storm: ‘Destructive’ build-up
what are they talking about
FOX 5 Storm Team Chief Meteorologist David Chandley warned that the potential for ice is the biggest concern in the metropolitan area.
“The main issue with this winter weather agreement is ice accumulation in our area,” Chandley said. “What really worries me is the ice.”
Chandley noted that while rain will return late Wednesday into Thursday, the weekend will be the “main event.”
“The ice accumulation is going to be damaging. We’re talking over half an inch of ice in most areas,” Chandley said. “That’s going to cause trees to come down, power lines to come down. So that’s why we’re concerned.”
Georgia ice storm time
timeline
Cold precipitation is expected to begin early Saturday and could continue into the start of the work week.
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Wednesday to Friday: Scattered showers are expected, but temperatures will remain above freezing.
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Saturday morning: As temperatures drop, the transition to freezing rain begins.
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Saturday evening to Sunday: Freezing rain and sleet could continue throughout the day.
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Monday morning: Precipitation may change to snow before ending later in the day.
Ice and snow in this winter snowstorm
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The FOX 5 storm team is tracking a low pressure system moving inland from the Pacific while a trough sneaks into the Southeast. The high-pressure “wedge” is expected to play an important role in keeping the cold air locked in place.
Data shows areas north of Interstate 20 have a 40 to 50 percent chance of seeing at least 0.5 inches of snow. There is also a 30 to 45 percent chance of 2 inches or more of snow in these northern areas.
Ice, sleet, freezing rain or snow?
local perspective
The impact varies by geography. For northern Georgia, snow is expected to be the predominant type of precipitation. However, for much of the area, including metro Atlanta, a “winter mix” of freezing rain and sleet is the main threat. Once temperatures drop below freezing on Saturday, temperatures are expected to remain below 32 degrees through Monday afternoon.
How to prepare for an ice storm
Why you should care
The storm is classified as a “potentially high-impact event” with a risk of moderate to major damage. Residents should be prepared to:
power failure: Excessive ice accumulation on limbs and lines can cause power outages.
Fallen trees: Half an inch of ice is usually enough to cause extensive tree damage.
Dangerous travel: A significant impact on road conditions is expected over the weekend.
See also:
Atlanta weather forecast
From a numerical perspective
Atlanta metro area forecast
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Wednesday: High 53 / Low 40 (30% precipitation)
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Thursday: High 53 / Low 44 (60% precipitation)
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Friday: High 53 / Low 35 (60% precipitation)
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Saturday: High 43 degrees/low 27 degrees (100% precipitation; rain turning to sleet/ice)
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Sunday: High 34 degrees/low 20 degrees (60% precipitation; freezing rain)
North Georgia Forecast
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Wednesday: High 49 / Low 34 (50% precipitation)
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Thursday: High 51 / Low 37 (60% precipitation)
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Friday: High 46 / Low 29 (60% precipitation; rain/snow mix)
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Saturday: High 36 / Low 26 (100% precipitation; snow/ice mix)
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Sunday: High 32 / Low 14 (60% precipitation; freezing rain/snow)
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FOX 5 Storm Warning Day
what’s next
The FOX 5 Storm Team has declared Saturday and Sunday Winter Storm Warning Days.
This is the first such alert this year.
“They’re not something we just throw around. It takes a meaningful, large event to issue them,” said Fox 5 Storm Team meteorologist Alex Forbes. “In fact, I can count on one hand the number of storm warning days we’ve issued since I’ve been at the station, and that was two years ago.”
The FOX 5 Storm team recommends residents in metro Atlanta and throughout North Georgia take a week to prepare.
“This winter storm has the potential to be something most people in this city have never seen before,” Forbes explained. “Please be prepared for power outages, possibly prolonged ones, and plan to stay in bed Friday night wherever you are.”
Stay connected and informed
what can you do
Stay ahead of the latest forecasts as Georgia prepares for possible winter weather threats! Don’t be left in the dark, download live radar and hourly timings for your neighborhood FOX 5 Storm Team App. Plus, for comprehensive live coverage and an in-depth look at the weather forecast, feel free to fox native app for your smart TV.
source
This article contains original predictions from the FOX 5 Storm team. The National Weather Service contributed to this report. This article has been updated since its original publication to provide the most accurate information.