Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories have been issued for much of northern Georgia as a significant winter weather system approaches the region. Starting Saturday, accumulating snow is expected to blanket the area, coinciding with a prolonged cold snap that will keep temperatures at or below freezing for over 60 hours.
The winter weather impact is projected to last from Saturday until Monday morning, featuring not only accumulating snowfall but also dangerously low temperatures. Residents are advised to avoid travel during snowfalls to minimize the risk of accidents on slick roads. Those venturing outdoors should dress in extra layers and limit their exposure to the frigid weather, keeping in mind the potential for freezing pipes as the weekend progresses. Increased vigilance will be required for icy surfaces as conditions deteriorate from Sunday into Monday.
As a coastal low develops, the likelihood of accumulating snowfall in northern Georgia rises. Both Atlanta and locations eastward have been placed under a Winter Storm Warning, where the heaviest snow accumulation is expected, significantly affecting road conditions. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for western Georgia, where snowfall amounts are anticipated to be lighter.
Important details about the snow event include:
– A potential window for light snow is set to occur Friday night into Saturday morning, particularly affecting areas east of the Atlanta metro.
– Meteorological conditions favor snow instead of sleet or freezing rain, meaning the expected accumulation will be powdery and lightweight.
– Any snowfall will fall on pre-existing frigid ground, which could lead to quick slick conditions on untreated surfaces.
– Accumulations are predicted to be the most substantial in northeast Georgia, where totals may exceed 6 inches in higher elevations. Snowfall of between 3 to 5 inches is likely across areas from northeast Georgia to north Gwinnett County and near Athens, while Atlanta may see anywhere from 1 to 3 inches.
The snow is expected to begin impacting far north Georgia early Saturday morning, with its progression anticipated to move southward toward the metro area after sunrise. A window of significant snowfall lasting four to six hours is forecasted for regions near and east of Atlanta. There is the possibility of heavier snowfall bands forming, which would cause reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions. Meanwhile, western Georgia is likely to remain dry with only scattered flurries.
As conditions unfold on Saturday, residents should prepare for potentially challenging travel conditions due to snow-covered roads. The temperature is expected to drop significantly, making untreated roads hazardous quickly. Maintenance crews will be deployed to clear the roads, but residents are urged to stay off the streets to allow for effective snow remediation.
Power outages could occur, but they are more likely due to the high winds forecasted rather than the snowfall itself, as the light, powdery snow is less likely to accumulate on power lines. However, afternoon wind gusts could reach 40 mph, leading to further challenges with blowing snow and reduced visibility.
Colder temperatures will prevail, with Saturday morning starting in the 20s and the wind chill dropping into the single digits. By Sunday morning, wind chills could plunge to sub-zero levels. Most areas are likely to experience temperatures staying below freezing from late Friday evening until Monday early afternoon, potentially resulting in issues with freezing pipes.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious and prepared as the winter weather system unfolds, ensuring safety during this significant cold snap in northern Georgia.