Winter Storm Paralyzes Atlanta: Roads, Airports, and Transit Shut Down

ATLANTA, Ga. — A severe winter storm swept through metro Atlanta on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, causing widespread disruptions, including road closures, flight cancellations, and transit suspensions. The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning, set to expire at 7 a.m. Wednesday, as snow and ice made travel hazardous across the region.

“We’re already seeing some light snow,” said Brad Nitz, Chief Meteorologist at Severe Weather Team 2. “Any little bit of snow can cause us some travel problems.” The storm’s impact was felt across multiple sectors, with local authorities urging residents to stay off the roads.

By 6:54 p.m., Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport implemented a ground stop due to icy conditions, later extending it until at least 9 p.m. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) further delayed flights, causing significant disruptions for travelers. MARTA suspended bus and streetcar services for the evening, with officials monitoring conditions to determine if delays would extend into Wednesday.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced the closure of all state offices in Atlanta and surrounding areas on Wednesday. “After careful discussion with State Meteorologist Will Lanxton and Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency Director Chris Stallings, state offices will remain closed tomorrow to keep roadways safe for crews and first responders,” Kemp stated.

Local governments also took precautionary measures. DeKalb County closed offices, senior centers, libraries, and recreation centers, while suspending sanitation services for Tuesday and Wednesday. Spalding County reported hazardous road conditions and multiple accidents, urging residents to avoid travel. In Lawrenceville, police closed several roads, including New Hope Road, due to icy conditions.

Interstate 75 southbound was shut down between exits 205 and 201 following multiple vehicle accidents. A water main break near Fulton Industrial Boulevard exacerbated conditions, creating black ice that further complicated road safety efforts.

The Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (ATL) suspended all Xpress transit services for Wednesday, closing its retail center and call center. The Atlanta Botanical Garden also announced closures at both its Midtown and Gainesville locations.

As the storm continued, Dunwoody police and other local authorities reiterated calls for residents to stay indoors. “We are urging everyone to avoid unnecessary travel,” a Dunwoody police spokesperson said. “Conditions are dangerous, and our priority is public safety.”

With temperatures expected to remain below freezing overnight, officials warned that road conditions could worsen. Crews from the Georgia Department of Transportation worked through the night to clear major roadways, but many secondary roads remained impassable.

Residents were advised to monitor local news and official updates for further developments. The storm’s impact is expected to linger into Wednesday, with potential delays in resuming normal operations across the region.