Winter Storm Hits North Georgia, Bringing Snow, Sleet, and Freezing Rain

A winter storm warning has been issued for North Georgia as a system developed over Texas and Oklahoma moves into the region, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The storm is expected to arrive in the early hours of Friday, with significant impacts predicted across the metro area and North Georgia mountains.

Severe Weather Team 2 Chief Meteorologist Brad Nitz warned that the storm could make travel difficult, if not impossible, due to accumulating snow and icy conditions. “The significant impacts will be from snow, sleet, and freezing rain,” Nitz said. The far North Georgia mountains are expected to see mainly snow and sleet, while the metro area will experience a mix of snow and freezing rain.

The storm is set to begin crossing into West Georgia from Alabama around 4 a.m. Friday, with temperatures dropping below freezing by early morning. Accumulating snow is expected in metro Atlanta by 10 a.m., particularly in the northern half of the metro and the North Georgia mountains. The southern metro area will likely see a wintry mix with temperatures hovering around freezing.

Nitz emphasized that the afternoon will bring sleet and freezing rain to the metro area, with the North Georgia mountains continuing to see snow and sleet. The storm is expected to taper off and move out of Georgia by 11 p.m. Friday.

Georgia Power has urged residents to prepare for potential power outages by assembling emergency kits, improving home insulation, and ensuring safe alternative heating options. Officials also advised residents to conserve heat, protect food, and stay informed through reliable sources.

Winter storm warnings are in effect for North Georgia and Clay County, N.C., while a winter weather advisory has been issued for Randolph County, Ala. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates and take necessary precautions as the storm approaches.