From Friday through Monday, the storm, dubbed Winter Storm Fern, is expected to impact millions of people across the U.S. in more than 30 states, including Georgia. To prepare, Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for the state on Thursday morning.
Right now, state and local officials are preparing for the first major winter storm of 2026, which is expected to bring as much as 2 inches of snow and ice to the Atlanta area, along with a wintry mix of sleet and freezing rain.
Forecasters say the storm could affect metro Atlanta, but North Georgia, specifically areas north of I-20, could be hardest hit. Officials warn Georgians that these weather conditions can cause downed trees, downed power lines, travel disruptions and more.
On Thursday’s edition of “Closer Look,” program host Rose Scott talked with several guests about the unfolding weather situation and how they are responding. Guests also shared the urgent precautions they are encouraging Georgians to take now, during and after the storm to keep themselves and their families safe.
Guests include:
Ryan Willis, a meterologist from the National Weather Service in Peachtree City
Chayne Sparagowski, an emergency management battalion chief at Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency
LaChandra Butler Burks, the interim chief operating officer for the City of Atlanta
*This developing story was last updated at 2:30 PM on 1/26/26.
