Press Releases

Mayor’s Office of Communications
55 Trinity Avenue, Suite 2500 • Atlanta, Georgia 30303

City of Atlanta Prepares for Potential Wintry Mix 

ATLANTA—The City of Atlanta Department of Public Works (DPW) crews are preparing for the projected arrival of wintry precipitation and freezing temperatures in metro Atlanta. City departments will maintain a posture of readiness and continue to monitor forecasts to determine appropriate response. In addition, a Flood Watch has been issued for north and central Georgia effective Saturday evening through Sunday evening with up to three inches of rain expected for most of the area.

The City of Atlanta Department of Public Works personnel are prepared to deploy a Level 3 response, which includes pre-treating Priority 1 and 2 bridges, overpasses and routes, including hospitals, police and fire stations. Public Works is equipped with 14 spreaders, six brine units, 3,150 tons of salt and 23,500 tons of brine, with a goal of ensuring optimal preparedness for inclement weather response.

When the City is significantly affected by weather conditions, DPW operations will work continuously to ensure roadways are clear and passable.

To report an issue, dial 404-546-0311 for all non-emergencies within the city limits. 

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Department of Public Works

Winter Weather Tips

Before Winter Weather

·         A storm can occur when family members are in different places, so develop a family communications plan.

·         Plan to check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.

·         Plan to bring pets inside.

·         Make a Ready Kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.

·         Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes. Be mindful of potential carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Prepare Your Home

·         Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.

·         Chemically treat your steps and walkways to avoid potential injuries.

·         Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.

·         Ensure all smoke detectors are in working condition.

·         Have at least one of the following heat sources nearby in case the power goes out:

• Extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats
• Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas log fireplace
• Kerosene heater, with proper ventilation. 

Prepare Your Vehicle

·         Fully winterize your vehicle: Have a mechanic check antifreeze, brakes, heater and defroster, tires, and windshield wipers to ensure they are in good shape. Keep your gas tank at least half full.

·         Keep an extra Ready Kit in the trunk of your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding a portable cell phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction and jumper cables.

·         Make sure you have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.

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For more information about the City of Atlanta, please visit www.atlantaga.gov or watch City Channel 26. Follow the City of Atlanta on Facebook and Twitter @CityofAtlanta. Follow Mayor Bottoms on Facebook and Twitter @KeishaBottoms