Georgia is experiencing catastrophic power outages as a result of a severe winter storm that brought ice, freezing rain, and strong winds to the state.
On January 10, 2025, this storm dumped snow on Atlanta, causing extensive disruptions throughout metro Atlanta and North Georgia.
Highlights of the Winter Storm’s Effect on the Rise in Power Outages:
More than 80,000 Georgia Power customers were without power as of Saturday morning (5:45 a.m.).
Over 7,000 outages were recorded by Georgia EMC, compared to 30,000 the night before.
The buildup of ice and freezing rain on electricity wires and tree limbs is one of the causes of outages.
Trees collapsing and other damage due to strong winds
Emergency Response: To help in metropolitan areas, Georgia Power has sent out staff from South Georgia.
Subsidiaries of the Florida and Southern Companies are available to provide additional support.
What Comes Next
Ongoing Power Restoration Initiatives:
Workers are putting forth endless effort to bring power back to the impacted areas.
Other Weather-Related Difficulties:
More outages and ice conditions are expected as long as the temperatures stay low.
Safety Advice for Power Outages During Winter Storms
Georgia Power prioritises security in certain dangerous situations:
Steer clear of fallen wires:
Avoid touching low-hanging or downed electricity lines.
Because energised wires may be concealed, use caution when near heavy snow and debris.
Backup Generator Safety: When operating a generator, follow all manufacturer instructions.
Never use a generator in a closed area or indoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Tree Limb Safety Measures:
Tree branches entangled on electricity cables should never be attempted to be removed by hand.
Analogies to Previous Storms
There have been comparisons made between this winter storm and Georgia’s infamous “Snowmageddon” in past years, which caused significant disruptions. Locals are getting ready for:
extended blackouts.
Travel interruptions and traffic have increased.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is experiencing stranding.
Keep abreast
The scenario is changing. Get the most recent information on: Efforts to restore power.
weather predictions for North Georgia and metro Atlanta.
Emergency resources and safety advice.
Extra Resources
Georgia Power Outage Map: Stay up to date on local outages in real time.
Prepare for winter weather by learning how to be safe during power outages and storms.
Local Assistance: For assistance, get in touch with Georgia Power or your neighbourhood EMC.
Impact of Winter Storms on Metro Atlanta and North Georgia: Crucial Travel Safety Advice and Updates on Road Conditions
Residents of metro Atlanta and North Georgia are dealing with difficult driving conditions as the winter storm continues to impact them because of the cold temperatures and icy precipitation.
Drivers should be extremely cautious on Saturday, January 11, 2025, due to this circumstance. This is all the information you need to be safe during this winter weather event.
Road Preparation Activities of the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
In order to maintain road safety, the GDOT has sent out more than 300 snowploughs and de-icing machines.
Continuous Operations: To clear and treat the most important routes, crews are working 12-hour shifts, paying particular attention to emergency paths and regions with high traffic.
Ice-covered roads and hazardous driving situations
Increased Accident Risk: Several accidents and incidents have occurred as a result of the dangerous driving conditions brought on by the snow and ice on Georgia’s state and interstate highways.
Crash Reports: Numerous crash complaints have prompted authorities to respond, highlighting the importance of exercising caution on all roads.
GDOT Issues Warnings for Travel
Steer Clear of Non-Essential Travel: GDOT strongly advises all drivers to avoid travelling unless it is absolutely required.
Travellers who are absolutely necessary are cautioned to be extremely cautious and to keep themselves updated on the present situation.
How to Verify Traffic and Road Conditions in Real Time
Getting to Traffic Updates and Maps
11Alive Traffic Sources: Visit 11Alive Traffic for the most recent information on incidents and road conditions in real time.
The National Weather Service Sensors Use online sensors from the National Weather Service to keep an eye on road conditions and temperatures.
Making Use of Weather App Alerts
Get the 11Alive app here: Download the 11Alive app to stay informed about current weather conditions.
Allow Alerts for Severe Weather: To get alerts on severe weather developments in your region, change the app’s settings.
The Best Ways to Drive Safely
Steer clear of travel if you can: Until the situation considerably improves, stay off the roadways.
Slow Down: To keep greater control on ice conditions, lower your speed.
Increase Following Distance: To enable unexpected stops, keep a safe distance between your car and other vehicles.
Getting Ready for Emergencies
Your car’s emergency kit: Stock your car with basic supplies like water, non-perishable food, and blankets for emergencies.
Verify the charging status of your phone: In the event of an emergency, always keep your phone fully charged.
What Comes Next
GDOT Operations Continued Recovery Efforts: GDOT workers will keep working all weekend to make roads in metro Atlanta and North Georgia better.
Temperatures That Remain Below Freezing
Conditions of Ice Could Continue: Given the predicted low temperatures, drivers should use extra caution, particularly in the early morning and late nights.
Share Your Experiences and Weather Updates
Participate in the Community
Add Pictures Associated with the Weather: To contribute images of the local weather, use the 11Alive app’s “Near Me” function.
Text Your Updates: Additionally, you can SMS your images to 404-885-7600 to share them.