A powerful ice storm is expected to hit parts of Georgia beginning this afternoon, with forecasters warning of significant ice accumulations, widespread power outages, and dangerous travel conditions through Monday morning.

What is in the statement?

The statement gives the following details:

…ICE STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 10
AM EST MONDAY…

* WHAT…Significant icing expected. Total ice accumulations between
a quarter of an inch and one inch are expected.

* WHERE…Portions of east central, north central, northeast, and
northwest Georgia.

* WHEN…From 1 PM this afternoon to 10 AM EST Monday.

* IMPACTS…Expect power outages and tree damage due to the ice.
Travel could be impossible.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

Travel is strongly discouraged. If you must travel, keep an extra
flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Prepare for possible power outages. The latest road conditions for
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

In addition the following Hazardous Weather Outlook was posted:

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for north and central Georgia.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight...

An Ice Storm Warning will be in effect today and tonight across
most of north Georgia. A Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect
immediately south of the Ice Storm Warning, where lesser ice
accumulation is expected. Travel impacts and power outages will
likely begin this evening and overnight.


.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Friday...

The Ice Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory will remain in
effect until Monday morning. Significant impacts to road
conditions and power infrastructure are likely by Sunday morning.
Cold conditions well after the ice storm has ended could
exacerbate icy roads on Monday.

Additionally, very cold nighttime temperatures and "feels like"
temperatures from Monday through potentially Friday will be an
added concern for areas with impacted utilities and for vulnerable
populations.

Confidence in a significant ice storm is high! Now is the time to
review your emergency plan and finish making preparations.

What counties are affected?

The following counties are included in the hazardous weather outlook: Murray, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, Towns, Gordon, Pickens, Floyd, Bartow, Cherokee, Polk, Paulding, Cobb, North Fulton, Gwinnett, Barrow, Clarke, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Wilkes, Douglas, South Fulton, DeKalb, Rockdale, Walton, Newton, Morgan, Greene, Taliaferro, Clayton, Henry, Warren

a larger area with numerous individual storms occurring somewhat randomly across the forecast area.

About the National Weather Service

The National Weather Service (NWS) is a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The NWS describes its role as follows:

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides weather, water, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy.

These services include Forecasts and Observations, Warnings, Impact-based Decision Support Services, and Education in an effort to build a Weather-Ready Nation. The ultimate goal is to have a society that is prepared for and responds to weather, water and climate events.