Atlanta Braces for Arctic Blast as Midwest Storm Moves East

ATLANTA — As a massive winter storm continues to batter the Midwest, metro Atlanta is bracing for a blasting of arctic air and potential winter precipitation. The storm, which has already brought blizzard conditions to Kansas and northwestern Missouri, is moving eastward, threatening to bring frigid temperatures and strong winds to the region.

According to FOX 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Julie Martin, the National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings stretching to the East Coast, affecting approximately 63 million Americans. In metro Atlanta, residents are experiencing chilly and wet weather, with winds expected to gust up to 35 mph. Temperatures are forecast to plummet from the 50s on Monday morning to the 30s by afternoon, with wind chills making it feel like the 20s in some parts of North Georgia.

While significant snowfall is not anticipated in metro Atlanta, there is a possibility of light flurries in North Georgia. The cold weather is expected to persist throughout the week, with lows in the 20s. Looking ahead to next weekend, there is a 40% chance of a wintry mix on Friday into Saturday, depending on the development of a low-pressure system.

Travelers should be aware of potential disruptions, especially those heading to areas like Washington, D.C., which is under a snow emergency. On Sunday, 84 flights out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport were canceled, and 577 were delayed. In anticipation of future weather, 50 flights scheduled for Monday had already been canceled by Sunday night.

Local authorities are preparing for the cold snap by opening warming centers across the region. Frontline Response announced a new warming center for women and children at Peace Baptist Church in Decatur, while their shelter on Gresham Road will serve as a warming center for men. DeKalb County has also opened four 24-hour warming centers, and Gwinnett County is offering overnight warming centers from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Jan. 6 and Jan. 7.

Residents are advised to dress warmly in layers, bring pets indoors, and check on vulnerable neighbors as the arctic blast takes hold. The FOX 5 Storm Team will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the weather develops.