Midwest winter storm approaches metro Atlanta

ATLANTA – As a massive winter storm continues to batter the Midwest, metro Atlanta is bracing for its own bout of severe weather.

The storm, which has already brought blizzard conditions to Kansas and northwestern Missouri, is moving eastward.

While the heaviest snowfall is expected to impact areas further north, our entire region is preparing for a significant drop in temperatures and blustery conditions, according to FOX 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Julie Martin.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings stretching to the East Coast, affecting approximately 63 million Americans. In metro Atlanta, residents are experiencing chilly and wet weather, with winds expected to gust up to 35 mph.

Metro Atlanta temperatures drop

As on Sunday evening, weather models showed that temperatures in Atlanta would start in the 50s on Monday morning, but would plummet as a cold front moves through the area. By the afternoon, temperatures are expected to drop into the 30s, with wind chills making it feel like the 20s in some parts of North Georgia.

Will it snow in Atlanta?

While significant snowfall is not anticipated in metro Atlanta, there is a possibility of light flurries in North Georgia.

The cold weather is expected to persist throughout the week, with lows in the 20s. Looking ahead to next weekend, there is a 40% chance of a wintry mix on Friday into Saturday, depending on the development of a low-pressure system.

Metro Atlanta snow, flurry travel tips

Travelers should be aware of potential disruptions, especially those heading to areas like Washington, D.C., which is under a snow emergency. With former President Carter’s events scheduled in the capital from Tuesday through Thursday, attendees are advised to check travel conditions in advance.

Keep up with the latest by downloading the FREE FOX 5 Storm Team app and following @FOX5StormTeam on Twitter

Frontline Response opens new warming center in Decatur

Frontline Response says a new warming center is now available for women and children. It’s located at Peace Baptist Church at 4000 Covington Highway in Decatur.

Intake begins at 5 p.m. on Monday.

In addition, Frontline Response says their shelter located at 2585 Gresham Road will now serve as a warming center for men beginning at 8 p.m. Monday. Single fathers are also welcome.

Warming centers open around metro Atlanta

DeKalb County will have four 24-hour warming centers open beginning at 8 p.m. on Jan. 6:

• Frontline Response International, 2585 Gresham Road, Atlanta
• Toby Grant, 593 Parkdale Drive, Scottdale
• Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340 McConnell Drive
• Exchange Recreation Center, 2771 Columbia Drive

An overnight-only experience is open to those seeking warmth and shelter at North DeKalb Senior/Community Center. Special transportation will be provided each morning.

You can find a list of transportation pickups to Frontline on the DeKalb County government’s website.

The following warming centers are open in Gwinnett County from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Jan. 6 and Jan. 7:

• Buford Senior Center, 2755 Sawnee Avenue, Buford
• Shorty Howell Park Activity Building, 2750 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth
• Best Friend Park Gym, 6224 Jimmy Carter Boulevard, Norcross
• Centerville Senior Center, Bethany Church Road, Snellville
• Lawrenceville Senior Center, 225 Benson Street, Lawrenceville

You can find more details about bus transit here.

Gilmer County is opening its Gilmer County Civic Center on South Main Street in Ellijay as a warming center from Jan. 6 through Jan. 12. Doors will open at 5 p.m. each day and close the next morning at 7 a.m. Dinner and breakfast will be offered. Pets are welcome and will be fed and kenneled on arrival.