Community Corner

Marietta Braces for Deep Freeze

A winter weather advisory is in effect until noon Monday, followed by wind chill warnings well below zero.

by Wendy Parker (Editor)

The metro Atlanta area could get hit with record cold weather as a powerful winter storm approaches on Monday, with possible icy roads and temperatures in the single digits and dangerous wind chill factors in the forecast. 

The National Weather Service on Sunday issued a winter weather advisory for most of metro Atlanta, including Cobb, until noon Monday, with a chance of light snow accumulations turning to sleet making roads potentially treacherous. 

There is a 30 percent chance of snow and sleet, primarily through Monday morning, with temperatures reaching only into the upper 20s. 

Overnight Monday is when the deep freeze is expected, with a low of 4 degrees for the Cobb area.

From noon Monday until 1 p.m. Tuesday, a wind chill advisory will be in effect, with the overnight wind chill factor being as low as minus 11 degrees.

Tuesday night's low is expected to be around 13 degrees above zero. On Wednesday, warmer temperatures and sunny skies return, with highs around 40 and lows around 25.

Law enforcement agencies were already notifying the public Sunday about navigating potentially dangerous road conditions at the start of the week, and offering safety tips for coping with the cold weather. 

The Marietta Police Department sent out an advisory Sunday afternoon, urging motorists not to travel unless they have to. 

For those who must get out on the roads, the biggest concerns are black ice patches and traveling across bridges. 

Inside the home, make sure you have fully charged cell phones and flashlights with fresh batteries, as well as a battery-operated radio and candles and lighters in the event of a power outage. 

Leave propane heaters and generators outside in well-ventilated areas to prevent injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Store plenty of firewood in a dry area if you have a fireplace, and limit use of your refrigerator or freezer during a power outage, since foods spoil faster when the doors open on a frequent basis.

The Cobb County School District does not resume classes until Tuesday, but teachers and staff are scheduled to report to work on Monday. The district has posted its inclement weather policy on its website. 

Marietta Public Schools were to have resumed classes on Monday, but they have been cancelled.


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