State Of Emergency Issued In Georgia Ahead Of Frigid Temps, Storm

GEORGIA — Gov. Brian Kemp has issued a state of emergency for the entire state of Georgia beginning Tuesday due to a winter storm and dangerously low temperatures predicted for the entire state.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the northern and central parts of Georgia and a winter weather advisory for the rest of the state beginning at 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Kemp said the state of emergency, for all 159 counties, begins at 10 a.m. Tuesday and will run through Tuesday, Jan. 28, unless there is a need to extend it.

"As our state experiences below-freezing temperatures and prepares for another winter weather system to move through, I have declared a statewide State of Emergency to ensure appropriate resources are deployed," Kemp said in announcing the order. That includes putting 250 members of the National Guard on standby for call-up if needed for storm cleanup.

"To allow GDOT to prepare roadways and to limit traffic as much as possible, state offices in the City of Atlanta — including the State Capitol and surrounding areas — will be closed tomorrow as employees who live in or commute to the city work remotely," Kemp said.

The National Weather Service said a winter storm is likely to hit northern and central Georgia Tuesday through early Wednesday.

Related: How To Keep Your Pipes From Freezing As Cold Hits GA

"Uncertainty remains regarding exact accumulations and northern extent of snowfall, but snow is likely to be the dominant precipitation type," the weather service said. "A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for areas along and south of the I-20/I-85 interchange for the potential for as much as 1-2 inches of snow accumulation."

Kemp said the effect of any snow on travel is the primary concern."

"Expect the afternoon and evening commutes Tuesday to be impacted, as well as Wednesday commutes," Kemp said.

The frigid temperatures are a concern as well. The weather service said wind chills on Monday night are anticipated to be as low as 2 degrees for the higher elevations of north Georgia, as low as 10 degrees along the I-20 corridor, and as low as 15 degrees elsewhere.

For Tuesday night, wind chills are expected to be in the single digits again north of I-20 and between 10-15 degrees south of I-20, the service said.

The bitter wind chills can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure. Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.

Keep pets indoors as much as possible.

Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.