Extreme Cold and Snow Storm Headed for Atlanta This Weekend

Northeast Georgia under Winter Storm Warning, rest of state under Winter Storm Advisory

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:31am

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Just a week after an ice storm hit North Georgia, the state is bracing for another winter storm this weekend, with forecasts predicting freezing temperatures, snow, and dangerous wind chills for much of the region, including the Atlanta metro area.

Why it matters

This winter storm comes on the heels of the previous ice storm, raising concerns about the potential for power outages, hazardous travel conditions, and the strain on local resources as the state deals with back-to-back extreme weather events.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for northeast Georgia, including parts of the Atlanta metro area, while the rest of the state falls under a Winter Storm Advisory. Residents in these areas should prepare for wind gusts up to 35 mph, difficult travel conditions, and very cold temperatures in the low 20s or high teens. Snow forecasts have been adjusted, with Atlanta expected to get under 2 inches and areas to the east potentially seeing up to 5 inches in a reasonable scenario, or up to 7 inches in a worst-case scenario.

  • Snow potential will start as early as Friday night and continue through Saturday to early Sunday morning.
  • Snow potential will peak on Saturday, between the early morning and early afternoon.
  • The coldest temperatures will likely not be until Saturday night into Sunday morning.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What they’re saying

“Real-time estimates of snow totals can be tracked using the NWS Probabilistic Precipitation Portal.”

— Irene Wright, Atlanta Connect reporter with USA Today's Deep South Connect team

What’s next

Residents in the affected areas should monitor weather forecasts closely and prepare for potentially hazardous travel conditions and power outages.

The takeaway

This winter storm highlights the need for Georgia communities to be prepared for extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. Proactive planning and coordination between local authorities, emergency services, and residents will be crucial in mitigating the impacts of this storm.