Georgia Braces for Winter Storm Fern as Statewide Emergency is Declared
As Winter Storm Fern makes its way toward Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp has issued a State of Emergency for the entire state. The storm is expected to bring freezing rain and sleet over the weekend, with the city of Athens particularly vulnerable to severe ice accumulation.
Governor Kemp has urged residents to avoid travel during the storm. “So, folks need to start getting off the roads on Saturday night,” Kemp advised. “If it’s bad where you are on Sunday, just do us a favor, do the State Patrol, DOT, all the other folks, the utility crews if they’re out working, if you can just stay off the roads, that would be a big favor to us and keep everybody safe.”
In preparation, the state is taking proactive measures to mitigate the storm’s impact. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) is working closely with other state agencies, while the Department of Transportation (DOT) plans to begin treating roads on Saturday morning. Crews equipped with chainsaws are on standby to manage fallen trees and other debris.
“We’re still early in this weather event’s impact on our state, but I can let you know that we’ll be monitoring this 24/7. We’ll certainly keep the public updated,” Kemp assured the public.
In addition, GEMA Director Josh Lamb has provided recommendations for residents to prepare for the storm’s arrival. He advises Georgians to gather enough nonperishable food, water, and medications to last at least three days. “Make sure you have warm clothing, blankets, flashlights and batteries and update your first aid kit, and a way to keep your phone charged,” Lamb suggested.
The State of Emergency is set to remain in effect until Thursday, January 29, 2026. For more information and updates, residents are encouraged to visit GEMA.georgia.gov.
