As Winter Storm Fern gears up to sweep across Georgia, Governor Brian P. Kemp has preemptively declared a state of emergency, according to an announcement from his office. He's called upon the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to ready the State Operations Center (SOC) as the storm's icy grip tightens this weekend. The emergency measure, taking effect immediately, is set to last through January 29.
"As forecasts continue to evolve, Georgians should be prepared for freezing precipitation that causes dangerous conditions and the potential for damage and power loss beginning Saturday," Governor Kemp warned, in a statement that the state's roads are already being treated, working with state and local officials to prepare for the winter onslaught, as reported by the Governor's Office. With local teams and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) in high gear for round-the-clock work, Kemp's urging residents to brace themselves and their families against the icy weather ahead.
As part of the emergency response, the order authorizes deployment of up to 500 Georgia National Guard troops if necessary. The declaration also contains measures to protect citizens, such as forbidding price gouging and adjusting regulations for commercial vehicle operators crucial in response activities. To ensure essential supplies can be transported without undue delay, the order temporarily lifts certain commercial vehicle restrictions.
The storm, which could predominantly unleash freezing rain across Georgia, particularly targeting areas north of I-20, is a test on the state's preparedness. With much of the state under a Winter Storm Watch, paving the way for a possible escalation to a Winter Storm Warning or Winter Weather Advisory, Georgians are facing down a storm that is working to seal the streets in ice until temperatures plummet even further on Monday morning.
Impacts from Winter Storm Fern are expected to begin in northern Georgia by tomorrow afternoon and last through Sunday evening. The ensuing bitter cold is predicted to stretch into Tuesday, raising additional concerns such as the possibility of frozen pipes and stubborn ice on roads impeding travel and cleanup efforts.
