As freezing temperatures continue to surge eastward across north Georgia, freezing rain (with some sleet) will become more widespread over the next several hours, according to this morning’s 5:00 advisory from the weather service.
“We’re receiving reports of accumulating ice and hazardous road conditions in areas that have already been experiencing wintry precipitation,” the advisory says. “Everyone in (northeast Georgia) should be prepared for hazardous road conditions by 8 AM (if not already).”
Data collected by the weather service at the Gainesville airport show that freezing rain has been falling since late last night and that the 5:00 temperature was 27 with a wind chill of 15. Winds were being clocked at 17 mph with gusts to 29.
The Winter Storm Warning and Cold Weather Advisory remain in effect. Lows tonight and tomorrow night are expected to be in the low 20s and near 10, respectively.
JACKSON EMC PREPARATIONS
While Jackson EMC prepared for the possibility of overnight power outages associated with Winter Storm Fern, as of 5 a.m., no widespread outages have been reported.
Freezing rain and precipitation are continuing across the service area this morning, along with sustained freezing temperatures. These conditions can still lead to outages as ice accumulates on trees and power lines and as weather conditions evolve throughout the day.
Jackson EMC remains fully staffed and ready to respond if outages occur. In addition to its 450 employees, Jackson EMC has more than 200 additional contract crew members coordinated and available to assist with restoration if needed.
Crews and equipment are pre-positioned across the service area, so restoration efforts can begin as quickly as conditions and safety procedures allow.
If you encounter a fallen power line, assume it is energized and dangerous. Call 911 and report the line to Jackson EMC immediately.