Ice storm leaves northeast Georgia slick, dangerous

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A winter ice storm moved through north Georgia over the weekend, leaving slick roads and hazardous conditions across the region.

The heaviest ice accumulation concentrated in far northeast Georgia.

Lake Lanier recorded the highest ice totals in the area, picking up nearly 0.8 inches of ice. Just north in Rabun County, Clayton saw 0.75 inches of ice accumulation, while Toccoa measured 0.60 inches. Cleveland and Vogel State Park each received 0.50 inches of ice.

Moving south, Milton and Dahlonega both recorded 0.40 inches of ice, while many areas across metro Atlanta experienced lighter accumulation. Tucker, Dunwoody, Lawrenceville, Canton, Acworth and Snellville all picked up a quarter inch of ice.

Ice totals decreased significantly south of I-20, with most locations in that area receiving rain instead of ice. This created a clear divide across Georgia, with dangerous icy conditions north of the interstate and wet roads to the south.

Significant sleet accumulation

In addition to ice, a significant amount of sleet fell across parts of north Georgia. Gainesville recorded the highest sleet totals, picking up a full inch of sleet. Sugar Hill received half an inch, while Arcade measured 0.4 inches and Hoschton recorded a tenth of an inch. The combination of sleet and ice made surfaces even more treacherous for travelers.

The ice and sleet accumulation, though varying in depth across the region, created treacherous travel conditions in affected areas. Even thin layers of ice can make roads extremely slippery and dangerous for drivers, and the combination of ice-covered surfaces and steep mountain terrain in northeast Georgia made travel particularly risky.

Residents in the hardest-hit areas are urged to avoid unnecessary travel until roads are treated and conditions improve.

If you must venture out, drive slowly, increase your following distance, and be prepared for sudden stops.

The First Alert Weather team will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as the situation develops. Stay with us for the latest on road conditions and when it’s safe to resume normal travel.

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