The potential is increasing for another significant winter storm to impact parts of the eastern United States this coming weekend. Forecasters emphasize it is still too early to pin down exact details, but confidence is growing that a storm system could develop and move through while very cold air remains in place.
Meteorologists say a disturbance is expected to move out of Canada later this week, helping a stronger low-pressure system form across the East. If that system tracks in the right corridor, it could bring widespread precipitation that may fall as rain, snow, or a mix, depending on where the coldest air sets up. The biggest uncertainties right now include the storm’s timing, track, and strength, which will determine what areas see the greatest impacts.
For Northwest Georgia and the surrounding region, the message for now is preparedness without panic. Residents should keep checking updated forecasts through the week, especially as we get closer to Friday and Saturday when forecast confidence typically improves. Now is also a good time to review weekend travel plans, make sure you have supplies in case of slick roads or power issues, and plan ahead for pets, pipes, and outdoor needs if colder, wetter conditions move in.
Chattooga County Emergency Management says there are currently no reported road hazards across the county, but residents are urged to stay cautious as wet surfaces may have iced over in spots, especially on porches, driveways, and less-traveled roads.
EMA says Public Works Director Tim Brunson has been checking roads throughout Chattooga County and reports that while main routes appear to be in good shape, some less-traveled roads do have icy spots. If you must travel, officials ask drivers to take it slow, use caution, and allow extra time.
The cold is expected to hang on today, with temperatures possibly not rising above freezing, and wind chills making it feel even colder. Residents who need to be outdoors are encouraged to dress appropriately in layers and limit time outside, as hypothermia can develop quickly in these conditions.
Chattooga County EMA reports that as of 6:00 a.m., the temperature in the county was 22 degrees, with a wind chill of 11 degrees.
As dangerous cold grips Northwest Georgia, Chattooga County Animal Control is urging residents to bring pets inside and take extra precautions to keep animals safe. Officials warn that pets cannot survive prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, especially overnight when wind chills can drop even lower.
Chattooga County Animal Control Director Charlie Long says families in need can pick up one free bale of straw to help provide warmer bedding and insulation for outdoor shelters. Straw is available at Pine Ridge Outdoors, 4999 GA-114, Lyerly, GA 30730, or Southern Living Farm and Garden, 15734 US-27, Trion, GA 30753. Long says the straw is one per family and is being provided by Animal Advocates of Chattooga County, adding thanks for their continued support of local animals.
Residents are reminded that garages, sheds, and porches may still be too cold, and that animals left outside can suffer quickly in these conditions. If pets must be outdoors for brief periods, make sure they have a dry, wind-blocked shelter with warm bedding, along with food and unfrozen water.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, January 26, 2026:
Businesses / Government Offices /Events:
Mount Vernon Mills – Denim and Finish Plant will start up at 10 AM
United Community Bank – Delayed opening until 11 AM
Dirt Town Deli – Closed Today
Menlo Restaurant – Delayed opening until 8 AM
No Silver Sneakers Today
CRC Chattooga will be closed today
Chattooga County Courthouse
Chattooga County Governmental Offices (Essential employees report)
Walker County Courthouse
Walker County Governmental Offices
City of Summerville – Delayed Opening until 10 AM (Today & Tomorrow)
Town of Trion Offices – Closed Today
Trion Recreation Department – 4 Hour Delay
Schools:
Trion City Schools – 2 Hour Delay. Students at 10 AM / Teachers at 9 AM
Walker County Schools – Closed Today
Floyd County Schools – Closed Today
Rome City Schools – Closed Today
Fort Payne City Schools – Closed Today
DeKalb County, Alabama Schools – Closed Today
Cherokee County, Alabama Schools – Closed Today / 2-Hour Delay on Tuesday
Colleges:
GNTC – All Campuses – Closed Today
Berry College – Closed Today
A blast of winter air is settling over Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia Monday, and the National Weather Service in Peachtree City is warning that some roads could turn slick in spots during the morning hours.
As frigid air settles into Chattooga County behind the weekend rain, volunteers with the Chattooga County Community Resource Center will continue operating a warming station at 150 Third Street in Summerville, located in the gym above the CRC Food Bank.
The warming station will remain available through Wednesday morning, January 28, 2026, and is scheduled to close at 9:00 a.m. that day.
The warming station hours are 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. Monday and Tuesday. If power outages occur, the site will transition to continuous operation to provide a safe, warm place for those who need it.
Chattooga County Public Works, city maintenance departments, and local law enforcement will continue monitoring road conditions and treating roadways as needed.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware as dangerously cold conditions will be with us for the next couple of days.
Drivers should use caution if traveling, particularly this evening and overnight as temperatures drop.
Fire officials say last week’s destructive fire at Henry’s BBQ in Summerville may have started in or around a heater near the front of the restaurant, and investigators say the building’s roofing and structural construction likely contributed to how quickly the blaze intensified.