Icy Roads Cause Chaos Across Metro Atlanta, Officials Urge Caution

ATLANTA, Ga. – A winter storm has left roads across metro Atlanta treacherous, with icy conditions causing multiple accidents, pileups, and stranded drivers. Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads as crews work to clear and treat streets.

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has warned motorists to avoid travel, particularly south and east of Interstate 85 and south of Interstate 20. Multiple FOX 5 Atlanta viewers reported being stranded and unable to reach emergency services due to the hazardous conditions.

One metro Atlanta resident told FOX 5 that his wife had been trapped in her car since 4 p.m. Tuesday after another vehicle struck her stranded car. “We tried calling 911, but no one could get to us,” he said.

Public transportation services, including buses, streetcars, and mobility services, were suspended Wednesday, with rail service operating infrequently due to limited staff. Deputies have advised drivers to avoid Interstate 75 and Interstate 475, as well as bridges and overpasses, where black ice is particularly dangerous.

In Clayton County, two to three inches of snow blanketed roads, creating hazardous driving conditions. Jana Williams, a driver from Marietta, expressed shock at the sudden change in conditions. “I didn’t think it was going to do all this. I came from Marietta, and there was nothing there. I’m just praying everybody remains safe,” she said.

Despite the chaos, acts of kindness emerged as Good Samaritans helped stranded drivers. Miracle Ballard, who got stuck in Forest Park, said, “It’s a blessing, I can say that. I was nervous, had some anxiety, so thank God they stopped and came out here to help.”

Local authorities, including the Senoia Police Department, reported widespread road closures, describing conditions as “trash.” Peachtree City police warned that 99.9% of their roadways were impassable, likening the scene to an episode of “The Walking Dead.”

In Gwinnett County, a 10-car pileup on Indian Trail and Steve Reynolds Boulevard was captured by a GDOT camera. Lawrenceville and Lilburn police reported multiple abandoned vehicles, with some drivers stranded for hours. Cosette Schmid, who was T-boned near a Lilburn Kroger, said, “My husband tried to come get me a few times, but it was just too icy.”

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson declared a State of Emergency, urging residents to shelter at home. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp also issued a statewide State of Emergency ahead of the storm.

As temperatures remain below freezing, officials emphasize that road conditions are unlikely to improve soon. “Remember, when there’s snow, take it slow,” a spokesperson for the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency said.