The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for northern Georgia as a significant winter weather event is now entering the region, creating hazardous travel conditions and the potential for power outages.  Reports of snow starting to fall at Cloudland on Lookout Mountain in Chattooga County were received by WZQZ News shortly before 5 AM. According to the latest forecast, ice accumulations ranging from 0.15 to 0.40 inches are anticipated in north Georgia, raising concerns for downed trees and power lines.

Residents are urged to prepare for possible power outages as icy conditions may render travel hazardous or even impossible. Snowfall of 1 to 2 inches is projected north of Interstate 20, with isolated areas in the higher mountain peaks potentially receiving up to 3 inches. The NWS has advised that travel is not recommended within the warning area, and individuals who must venture out should take precautions, including carrying extra warmth, flashlights, food, and water in their vehicles.

Meteorologists have noted that low surface dewpoints and a dry layer in the atmosphere will contribute to evaporative cooling, likely dropping temperatures into the upper 20s once precipitation begins. Initially, northern Georgia will see snow, while areas further south may experience lesser snowfall due to higher dewpoints. As the day progresses, the freezing line is expected to creep northward, with the Atlanta area possibly experiencing its first snow of the season.

While precipitation is expected to taper off by early Saturday morning, lingering flurries may persist in the northern mountain regions. As temperatures rise throughout Saturday, the risk of black ice formation will increase overnight as conditions dip below freezing once more.

WZQZ will continue to bring updates throughout the day.