A “very dangerous ice situation” is gripping the southeastern U.S., with millions affected by winter storm warnings and advisories, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Six states—Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, and Virginia—are bracing for heavy ice accumulation, treacherous travel, and power outages through the weekend.
The NWS forecast predicts up to 4/10 of an inch of ice in parts of the Carolinas and Georgia, along with 3-5 inches of snow for the southern Appalachians and southern Virginia. The heaviest ice is expected in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, posing severe risks to travel and infrastructure.
“Dangerous travel conditions, scattered power outages, and downed branches are expected due to the heavy snow and ice,” NWS warned. Cold temperatures following the storm could exacerbate the situation for those without power.
Governors in all six states have declared states of emergency, urging residents to stay off roads and take safety precautions. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster emphasized, “Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary… conditions are intensifying earlier than anticipated.”
In Georgia, where ice and snow are rare, Governor Brian Kemp advised citizens to plan ahead and remain vigilant. Chief Meteorologist Brad Nitz highlighted the worsening conditions in Atlanta, warning, “Everything slushy and wet now is going to freeze.”
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein raised similar concerns, stating, “Precipitation and freezing temperatures tonight will make a mess of the roads on Saturday morning.”
While the ice storm’s immediate threat is expected to diminish by Saturday night, residual dangers, such as icy roads and freezing temperatures, may persist. Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and heed official advisories to ensure safety.
This severe winter event underscores the need for preparedness in regions unaccustomed to such extreme conditions.
