Atlanta Winter Weather: How to Handle Power Outages

Georgia residents are bracing for a winter storm that might bring power disruptions, disrupting daily life and safety.

Residents should prepare an emergency pack containing non-perishable food, water, and flashlights to reduce the effect of any outages.

During outages, residents should save heat, safeguard food, and remain updated via reputable sources such as the FOX 5 Storm Team App.

ATLANTA - Georgia residents are bracing for a winter storm that will bring snow, sleet, and freezing rain later this week. Forecasters warn of potential power outages that could disrupt daily life and jeopardize safety, prompting officials to advise citizens to take precautions.

Latest Updates on This Winter Storm

While many Georgia houses rely on natural gas for heating, a power outage can still provide considerable issues.

Getting Ready for Possible Power Outages

To reduce the impact of power outages, residents should take the following steps:

• Prepare an emergency kit: Include at least three days' worth of nonperishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a manual can opener. These necessities can make a big impact if power restoration is delayed.

• Improve home insulation by inspecting for drafts and sealing gaps to preserve heat. Insulating pipes can also help to prevent freezing and bursts, lowering the danger of water damage.

• Ensure alternative heating: Prepare safe options like fireplaces or wood stoves. If they have not been cleaned or inspected recently, that should be a priority. Generators should be placed outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

How to Stay Safe During Power Outages

If there is a power outage, residents should take the following precautions:

• Conserve heat: Keep doors and windows closed to keep comfortable inside. Stay comfortable by layering clothing and using blankets.

• Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food. A fully stocked freezer can keep products safe for up to 48 hours without power.

• Stay informed: Use the FOX 5 Storm Team app to track weather updates and power restoration operations from trusted sources. Georgia Power's Outage & Storm Center and Georgia EMC's Outage page provide real-time information.

• Look for warming shelters: In the event of a prolonged outage, some municipalities may establish warming shelters to provide comfort from the cold. FOX 5 will post a list of those on its website as they become available, as well as the most recent closures.