After two doses of severe winter weather, some warmer temperatures will be coming to Cobb over the next week.
For the first time since Sunday, the high on Wednesday was above freezing—around 36 degrees.
But overnight lows for the next few nights will continue to be very cold.
On Wednesday night, lows are forecast to fall into the teens, meaning what precipitation fell in Cobb will freeze over.
The National Weather Service in Atlanta is continuing a hazardous weather outlook that calls for wind chills of 10-15 degrees Wednesday night in parts of Georgia. A cold weather advisory has been issued for parts of central Georgia, along a line roughly connecting LaGrange to Barnesville to Warrenton.
Local lows through the the weekend also will stay around the freezing mark for much of north Georgia and Cobb.
The sun returned to Cobb on Wednesday, as daytime highs will push into the 40s through Sunday.
Cobb government returned to normal operations Wednesday, and Cobb schools operated on a two-hour delay.
Cobb DOT said there were few roads that were impacted by the snow/ice that hit central Georgia hard, and spread to areas of eastern metro Atlanta.
But that bad weather line stopped just short of Cobb County.
Milder weather will gradually return to the Cobb area by early next week, with highs popping back up into the 50s starting on Tuesday.
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The Cobb County School District said Wednesday classes will begin on a two-hour delay.
“Throughout the day, our police, maintenance, and transportation departments have reviewed both road and facility conditions in Cobb,” stated a district message that went out at 7:10 p.m.
All extracurricular and after-school activities, including sports, “will operate on a normal schedule.”
The district said the decision was made “in line with discussions with the National Weather Service Atlanta, Cobb Emergency Management, and Cobb Department of Transportation.”
ORIGINAL REPORT:
An rare winter storm that dumped several inches of snow along the Gulf coast reached metro Atlanta Tuesday.
By mid-afternoon, the National Weather Service in Atlanta expanded a winter storm warning to include Cobb County, as other parts of the metro region experienced significant amounts of snow and ice.
The warning extends through 7 a.m. Wednesday, as temperatures are once again expected to fall into the mid-teens Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning,
Shortly before 5 p.m., the Cobb County School District said it was monitoring weather reports and would decide on whether to cancel Wednesday classes and activities by 7 p.m.
“We continue to monitor conditions in Cobb during a very complicated winter storm,” a district message stated.
“Due to weather conditions that are shifting across the metro area, we are not yet able to announce a decision about tomorrow’s school day.”
School was closed on Tuesday in Cobb, Marietta and other school districts in metro Atlanta, as a storm that swept up through the Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida panhandle coastal areas moved inland.
Wet and snowy weather arrived early Tuesday afternoon, causing treacherous travel and shutting down Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Along the gulf coast, more than six inches of snow were reported in Mobile, Ala., and the first-ever snow blizzard alerts were issued in Louisiana, where New Orleans was also blanketed with several inches of snow.
Anywhere from 2-6 inches of snow has been forecast. The Cobb Emergency Management Agency said around 6 p.m. that parts of South Cobb have experienced some snow, with “a slight amount of accumulation near the I-20/Riverside area. Douglas County has experienced similar on their side of the line. Our DOT is reporting there are no travel impacts at this time, but this doesn’t mean to throw caution to the wind while driving.”
Cobb County government said county DOT crews were out Tuesday morning pre-treating main roads, and all county offices, services and courts closed at 12:30 p.m.
“So far (fingers crossed), most of the county’s roads are in great shape,” the county said on social media around 5:30 p.m Tuesday.
Tuesday night’s lows are expected to be the coldest yet in a winter weather wave that began on Sunday night, with lows around 12 or 13.
On Wednesday, temperatures will rise above freezing, to around 36, with sunny skies, then drop to around 20 on Wednesday night.
Thursday-Sunday weather is forecast to be sunny and in the 40s for highs,, and lows in the 20s.
The start of next week will be warmer, with highs back into the 50s.
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The Cobb County School District said that all classes and activities will be cancelled on Tuesday, “due to the Winter Storm Watch, including extreme cold and the potential for unsafe road and walkway conditions for students and staff.”
ORIGINAL REPORT:
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Monday declared a state of emergency as a second winter storm in as many weeks is sweeping through the state.
The National Weather Service in Atlanta has issued a winter storm warning for central Georgia and a winter weather advisory for parts of north Georgia, including Cobb County, from 10 a.m. Tuesday to 7 a.m. Wednesday.
The forecast indicates that up to three inches of snow could accumulate across the state, but the likelihood of snow in Cobb and the metro Atlanta area is unclear for now.
Cobb is at the northern edge of the advisory area, as temperatures are expected to remain below freezing into Wednesday.
The chances of hazardous weather are greatest in central Georgia.
Kemp’s declaration, which authorizes emergency resources to deploy across the state in an anticipation of snow and ice, means that state government offices in Atlanta are closed on Tuesday, and the Georgia General Assembly session will be cancelled.
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Cobb County is included in an extreme cold watch issued for Monday morning by the National Weather Service in Atlanta.
The watch is being issued from 1 a.m. Monday to 12 p.m. Monday as subfreezing temperatures and high wind chill factors are converging over much of the Deep South.
The warm weekend we’ve been enjoying will quickly turn much colder on Sunday afternoon, with high temperatures expected only around 40 and wind gusts up to 20 mph in some places.
The NWS said in a Saturday afternoon forecast that temperatures Monday morning will drop into the teens, accompanied by wind chills that could make it feel like near zero.
Some areas could also have a wind chill factor of below zero, according to early forecasts.
The watch area includes most of metro Atlanta and the north Georgia mountains on a line extending east to around Gainesville and south to I-285 south of the city of Atlanta.
There’s also a chance of snow on Tuesday, as the winter storm could bring enough precipitation, combined with the colder temperatures, to make for a bone-chilling week.
On Monday, the wind gusts are forecast to be up to 20 mph in some places, with lows dropping below 20 Monday night.
Low temperatures through Thursday are also expected to get into the teens, with highs barely breaking above freezing if at all.
The chance of snow on Tuesday is 50 percent, mostly after 1 p.m., and continuing through around 1 a.m. Wednesday. according to the NWS forecast.
Wednesday should be sunny, with highs in the mid 30s and lows also in the high teens, and similar weather is in store for Thursday.
By the weekend, high temperatures will return to the 40s, with lows in the 20s.
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Reader Tami McIntire outside her home in East Cobb, with an outer space theme to Winter Storm Cora.
The winter storm that swept through East Cobb on Friday, leaving snow and some freezing conditions gave plenty of families a chance to enjoy the outdoors.
Thanks to readers Tami McIntire and Catarina Kommer for the photos from their yards Sunday on what’s the last of a three-day snow holiday here for many. (You can send yours if you like, too, and we’ll add them to this post: editor@eastcobbnews.com).
With somewhat warmer temperatures in the forecast, activities that had been cancelled or postponed are returning to normal.
The Cobb County School District sent this message to the public Sunday afternoon:
“All Cobb County School District schools are fully operational and will be open on a normal schedule on Monday, January 13th.
“We look forward to seeing all students in school and on time!”
The sun came out on Sunday and highs crept up into the low 40s, enough for some of snow/sleet to melt.
It’s expected to freeze back again Sunday night, with lows back in the 20s, so there are continued road hazards in some spots.
Cobb government said Sunday afternoon that “icy spots could persist in shaded areas and could re-form Monday morning. Cobb DOT will respond to calls as they arrive, but please use caution.”
Cobb DOT has a maintenance work desk at 770-528-1600 for routine issues to be handed during regular business hours, and via mobile app: https://seeclickfix.com/cobb-county.
Inside, Tami McIntire’s cat doesn’t know what to make of the snow.Luna, Catarina Kommer’s Rottweiler, enjoying a tromp in the snow.A cardinal in the snow in Catarina Kommer’s yard.
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Slushy conditions on Johnson Ferry Road at Paper Mill. Road Saturday afternoon. (511 GA)
Some businesses and other activities resumed Saturday as the cleanup is underway for Friday’s Winter Storm Cora.
But road and power line hazards are expected to continue through Saturday night with the return of sub-freezing conditions.
The National Weather Service in Atlanta reported a record 2.1-inch downfall of snow for a single day, but the storm also brought ice, sleet and freezing rain that made roads treacherous and caused power outages.
Cobb government and public safety officials were urging residents to be careful if venturing out on the roads, because of below-freezing temperatures early Saturday that produced slick spots and black ice in many areas.
The NWS issued a special weather statement Saturday afternoon about icy roads in North Georgia, including Cobb, with the most serious hazards lasting through 10 a.m. Sunday.
While travel conditions have been clear in most of East Cobb Saturday, there have been some foggy, drizzly patches, such as at Johnson Ferry Road and Paper Mill Road (above, 511 Georgia screen grab).
The NWS is urging motorists to observe caution Saturday night and Sunday morning if venturing out, as temperatures will once again fall into the 20s.
“Interstates & major highways may largely be safe, but secondary roads, back roads, bridges & overpasses will likely have black ice,” the NWS stated in a social media message Saturday afternoon.
Some churches have either cancelled in-person worship altogether or are holding services only later in the morning. The forecast for Sunday calls for sunny skies and highs in the mid 40s, the warmest it’s been since Thursday.
According to power outage maps from the electric companies, only a pocket of East Cobb residents lost electric power during and after the storm.
As of 5 p.m. Saturday, Georgia Power is reporting around 10 outages in East Cobb; and fewer than 5 by Cobb EMC.
Cobb County facilities, including libraries, remained closed Saturday, and businesses such as health and fitness spas either cut back or cancelled activities.
Temperatures are expected to fall below freezing around sunset on Saturday, with low into the low 20s.
On Sunday morning, the sun will return as the conditions break above freezing, with highs in the mid 40s.
Here is a partial list of altered church service schedules that we’ve seen. This is not complete, and is subject to change, so visit your church’s website or social media channels for updated information. Some of those cancelling everything 0utright are saying their parking lots are frozen:
Piedmont Road Church of Christ: Worship only 2 p.m.
East Cobb UMC: Worship only 11 a.m.
Mt. Paran North Church of God: Worship only 11:15 a.m.
Emerson Unitarian Universalist: All activities cancelled
Mt. Zion UMC: 10 a.m. Sunday school; 11 a.m. Worship
Mountain View Church: All activities cancelled
St. Andrew UMC: In-person worship cancelled; virtual prayer (FB/YT) 11 a.m.
Beautiful Savior Lutheran: Worship only 11 a.m.
East Cobb Church of Christ: Online communion 9:30 a.m.
East Cobb Church: All activities cancelled
Mt. Bethel Church: Worship only 9:30 a.m.
Chestnut Ridge Christian Church: Online worship only (FB/YT) 11 a.m.
Piedmont Church: Online worship only 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m.
Johnson Ferry Baptist Church: Worship 10, 11:30 a.m. only
St. Catherine’s Episcopal: Worship only 11 a.m.
Eastside Church: All activities cancelled
Holy Trinity Lutheran: Worship only 11 a.m.
Grace Resurrection Methodist: All activities cancelled
Eastminster Presbyterian: All activities cancelled
East Cobb Presbyterian: Worship only 10:30 a.m.
Unity North Atlanta Church: All activities cancelled
To track the latest conditions, including electrical service, visit the following links. If you have updated information to share with us about openings/closings/delays, etc., please e-mail us: editor@eastcobbnews.com.
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A snapshot from a reader-submitted drone video (see below) of a neighborhood off Casteel Road in East Cobb on Friday.
At least a couple of inches of snow have fallen in the East Cobb area, and now the really dangerous stuff—sleet, freezing rain and ice—is starting to accumulate.
The winter storm that moved through much of the Deep South early Friday morning is continuing through the rest of the day, with precipitation in the forecast through the early evening.
Here’s what the Cobb Emergency Management Agency posted late Friday afternoon:
“Dangerous road conditions are expected to continue through the night as dropping temperatures encourage freezing rain. Please stay home and do not travel. It is much better to enjoy this winter wonderland from the safety and warmth of your home than to get stranded on the side of the road in your vehicle.
“The possibility of trees falling and electricity being impacted will increase overnight as well. If your devices aren’t charged already, here is your reminder to plug them in. Locating flashlights and batteries now and having them in an easy to access place is also a great idea.”
Here’s what Cobb government posted late Friday afternoon as well:
The main roads in East Cobb had turned to an icy slush Friday, after being treated by Cobb DOT crews.
But temperatures will once again be falling into the 20s overnight into Saturday, when the winter storm warning ends.
Residents heeded government and public safety warnings to stay off the roads Fridau, as the “wintry mix” has been wreaking havoc across the area.
Johnson Ferry Road was blocked at Columns Drive for a while on Friday, as vehicles struggled to navigate the hilly area around the Chattahoochee River.
Shortly after 3 p.m., the road was reopened to traffic, but you’re advised to travel only when necessary.
“Cobb’s public safety units and Cobb DOT have a long list of calls and will work throughout the day to get to stranded motorists and help others get to the hospital,” Cobb government said in a message late Friday morning.
We’ll pass along specifics of where other traffic problems exist, along with downed power and tree lines, when we get them.
You can also let us know and we’ll post them there. Send your updates to editor@eastcobbnews.com.
And like our reader, Ariel Starke, has done with the drone video below, please send us your photos/videos if it’s safe for you to do so.
Every Sunday we round up the week’s top headlines and preview the upcoming week in the East Cobb News Digest. Click here to sign up and you’re good to go!
Here’s the latest information we’ve pulled together late Thursday afternoon, as road crews begin brining work and citizens make last-minute plans and shopping for the winter storm:
THE FORECAST: The latest from the National Weather Service is calling for up to two inches of snow at least for Cobb County and the north metro area Friday morning, and anticipates up to a quarter-inch of ice on top of that.
The NWS on Thursday afternoon upgraded a winter storm watch to warning for most of north and central Georgia from 7 a.m. Friday to 7 p.m. Saturday.
A state of emergency has been declared across Georgia by Gov. Brian Kemp.
Cobb government offices and the Cobb school district are closed on Friday, and most businesses and organizations have cancelled activities on Friday and Saturday.
It’s expected that snow will come first, followed by ice/sleet/freezing rain or some combination.
You’re asked not to travel at all on Friday, as roads are expected to be extremely hazardous and road crews will be applying a salt-sand combination to make major roads passable.
Bridges and overpasses tend to freeze over first, along with standing water on and along roads.
Highs are only forecast to be in the mid-30s, as precipitation is expected through the late afternoon Friday.
It’s very likely that travel may be difficult on Saturday, as temperatures are not expected to get out of the 30s and will fall into the 20s overnight.
Sunday will have highs around 40 and partly sunny skies but there may be areas where roads are not passable at all, especially residential streets that county road crews may not be able to get to.
It may not be until Monday that road conditions are safe enough for regular local travel.
TO GET PREPARED: Grocery and other stores were busy Thursday afternoon as shoppers stocked up on food and other items in the event of being home for a few days.
Have plenty of perishable food on hand, including pet food and water, as well as food that doesn’t need electric heat in case of a power outage.
Also keep on hand flashlights with fresh batteries, extra blankets, coats, gloves, caps and other clothing to stay warm should the power go out.
Stay tuned to emergency information via your favorite media outlets and radio communications and official channels.
Keep computer and mobile devices fully charged and turn on notifications for weather alerts.
TO REPORT AN OUTAGE: The following links are provided by Cobb County government:
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From the Cobb County School District around 11 a.m. Thursday:
“As we prepare for forecasted ice and snow and to protect students and staff who could be traveling to school during dangerous road conditions, all Cobb schools and offices will be closed on Friday, January 10th, for all students and staff. All extracurriculars, including sports, are also canceled on Friday, January 10th, and Saturday, January 11th.”
UPDATED, around noon Thursday, from Gov. Brian Kemp:
“Governor Brian P. Kemp today declared a statewide State of Emergency, effective immediately through Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in preparation for the approaching winter storm expected to impact Georgia beginning this Friday. The State of Emergency authorizes the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to activate the State Operations Center (SOC) and mobilize any needed resources to address potential impacts. GEMA/HS, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS), and other state agencies are instructed to provide essential personnel to the SOC, which will move to a Level 2 Activation beginning tonight at 7 p.m.
“The Georgia Department of Transportation, along with the Department of Public Safety, began treating roads early this morning to prepare for the approaching winter storm, and I’m asking all Georgians to help them do their jobs by limiting travel as much as possible in the coming days,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Hazardous conditions, including ice and snow, can develop quickly and make travel very dangerous. Plan ahead and stay tuned to updates from state and local officials to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe while our first responders continue to work tirelessly throughout this weather event.”
“Among other provisions, the State of Emergency order prohibits price gouging; suspends hours-of-service limitations for commercial vehicle operators involved in response activities; and temporarily increases weight, height, and length limits for commercial vehicles transporting essential supplies.”
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Cobb government said Wednesday afternoon that all county facilities will be closed starting at 5 a.m. Friday due to the winter storm.
Cobb County Manager Jackie McMorris issued the advisory to all staff, “emphasizing the priority of ensuring safety and reducing traffic on roadways as Cobb DOT works to clear and treat roads,” the county said in a release.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for North Georgia from 7 a.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday, and the Cobb area could get two inches or more of snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain, or some combination.
In addition, Cobb County Superior Court Chief Judge Gregory Poole has issued an order closing the courthouse on Friday, with normal court operations scheduled to resume Monday morning. The only exception is Cobb Magistrate Court, which will maintain its 24/7 operations.
At this time, the Cobb County School District has not announced any closings of classes and activities for Friday.
The Cobb release said Cobb DOT crews will begin pretreating roads on Thursday, working in 12-hour shifts to treat 430 miles of roads.
“We’ll begin pre-treating the roads with a brine mixture on Thursday afternoon,” said Cobb DOT Deputy Director J.D. Lorens in the county release. “As the event progresses, we’ll switch to a sand-salt mixture to address icy conditions. Our team recently completed its annual inclement weather exercise and is prepared for whatever comes our way.”
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A winter storm watch has been issued for Cobb and most of North Georgia from 7 a.m. Friday through 7 a.m. Saturday.
The precipitation is forecast by mid-to late Friday afternoon, and continuing through Friday evening.
The chance of precipitation is 90 percent, with temperatures hovering at or below freezing.
Across the watch area, anywhere from one to seven inches of snow, sleet, freezing rain and other precipitation is possible, with higher totals expected in the mountains.
In Cobb and metro Atlanta, the expectation of snow/ice could be anywhere from two to four inches, particularly above Interstate 20.
Cobb DOT crews are preparing to treat roads, and Cobb County Emergency Management is working with GEMA to monitor conditions in the area, according to Cobb government.
There’s no update Wednesday yet from the Cobb County School District. Superintendent Chris Ragsdale said Tuesday that any decision about Friday classes and activities is expected to be announced on Thursday.
The NWS forecast Wednesday morning said snow is likely before 4 p.m. Friday, then a mixture after that with a high near 34 and a low around 29.
Saturday should be partly sunny but only with a high of 36 and a low dipping into the teens.
On Sunday, the forecast has sun returning to the area with a high around 40 and a low around 25.
Here’s the extended Cobb-area forecast for the moment; we will be updating with information about closures and related details as they are announced.
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A winter storm watch has been issued for Cobb and North Georgia from 7 a.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
Cobb County government and Cobb County School District officials said Tuesday that they’re closely monitoring weather reports for a likely winter storm later this week.
The National Weather Service forecast includes a strong chance of precipitation Friday into Saturday as temperatures are expected to plunge well below freezing.
The forecast includes an 80 percent chance of rain Friday night, which could include snow, sleet and freezing rain and temperatures expected to fall into the high 20s.
The NWS forecast is predicting the most severe weather for north Georgia to fall along a line north of Interstate 20.
At a special Cobb Board of Education meeting Tuesday, Cobb school district Chris Ragsdale said that “we intend, if a call needs to be made, you will hear about the call Thursday before Friday, if the case needs to be called for school.”
Cobb government said Tuesday afternoon that road crews will be ready to treat more than 400 miles of roads if/when necessary.
Thus far, there are no closures reported.
The forecast calls for sunny skies on Wednesday with a high of around 40 and a low of around 20.
On Thursday, more sun and high of 40 are in the forecast, with a low of 26.
The high on Friday is expected to reach only 36 with a low around 30.
The chance of precipitation is in a range of 50-90 percent/
Clear, but cold weather returns for the weekend, with highs ranging between 38-42 and lows between 22-26.
The MUST Ministries warming shelter will be open every evening at least through Friday, as overnight temperatures are expected to be at or below freezing.
Here’s the extended Cobb-area forecast for the moment; we will be updating with information about closures and related details as they are announced.
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The National Weather Service said that a tornado briefly touched down in East Cobb in storms Sunday night.
Cobb government said in a release Tuesday that around a dozen homes were damaged on Corral Drive and Bridal Path.
That’s located off Bryant Road, north of Sandy Plains Road
The Cobb release said NWS observers visited the area Tuesday to survey the damage, and determined the tornado to be in the Ef-1 category, with winds up to 95 mph.
“Several residents were displaced, and fire crews reported one minor injury,” the Cobb release said. “No tornado warnings were issued in Cobb County during the storm.”
The Cobb County Emergency Management office asking anyone who has property damage from the storm to visit the Damage Assessment Reporting Form.
Cobb government said Cobb DOT crews responded to 45 calls of trees blocking roads following the storm.
The injury in East Cobb came to an individual in a home that was struck by a tree, according to Cobb government, and that person sought medical attention.
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Sunday and Monday were unseasonably warm in East Cobb, and the weather is expected to get colder and wetter by the time Thanksgiving Day arrives.
Temperatures were expected to reach 70 with sunny skies by Monday afternoon, and they’ll stay as high as the low 60s until Friday.
That’s when colder temperatures will settle in for a few days, including a very chilly weekend.
The Turkey Day forecast calls for highs in the low 60s and lows in the mid 40s, along with a moderate chance of rain that could start by Wednesday evening.
That’s all the precipitation that’s in the forecast for the next week or so, but you’ll need to bundle up for Black Friday and beyond.
Highs on Friday are expected to get only to 50 degrees, and similar highs are expected for Saturday and Sunday.
Next Monday, it may not get out of the 30s, and overnight lows from Friday through the middle of next week are likely to stay at or below freezing.
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It’s starting to feel a little like the fall, with some windy weather over the weekend.
But the week of Halloween in the East Cobb area will continue to be unseasonably warm, according to the National Weather Service.
The local forecast calls for more sunny and partly sunny days with high temperatures in the mid- to high 70s, and lows around 60 most nights.
Wednesday and Thursday (Halloween) will be the warmest, with highs reaching 80 degrees during the day.
Conditions will be more cloudy toward the end of the week and through the weekend, with highs remaining in the 70s as Daylight Saving Time ends on Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, metro Atlanta has gone without rain for 29 consecutive days.
If the rain holds off through Halloween, the area will experience the first completely dry month on record, dating back to 1878.
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Indian summer-like weather has returned to the Cobb area for the latter part of October, and for the final two weeks of Daylight Saving Time.
We’ve gone from having a freeze advisory during the week to highs in the low 70s on Saturday.
Starting today, plenty of sunshine is expected throughout the coming week and temperatures will be reaching into the 70s and beyond.
The extended forecast of the National Weather Service in Atlanta is projecting highs in the mid-to-high 70s for at least the next week.
And the cooler temperatures we’ve been experiencing at night in recent days also will be going up, with overnight lows ranging from the high 40s to the mid 50s.
Winds also are expected be low during this period, and humidity levels also have been tapering off.
As we head into Standard Time, sunsets will gradually be getting earlier.
In the last week or so official sunsets have been at around 7:30 p.m. or so. They’re projected to be around 7 p.m. from now on, until Standard Time returns on Nov. 3.
Sunrise times are roughly between 7:30-8 a.m.
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A reader photo from Columns Drive, which is closed between Atlanta Country Club Drive and Riverlook Parkway.
UPDATED, 6:20 P.M.:
Cobb Police said just a few moments ago that Columns Drive has reopened. “There is still some standing water and a tree down in the area, but the roadway is deemed passable,” according to a message on its Facebook page posted around 6 p.m.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
Cobb County was spared the worst of Tropical Storm Helene Friday morning, but there’s extensive flooding that’s affecting travel for the remainder of the day.
A local state of emergency remains in place as cleanup crews continue their work.
Cobb also remains under a flash flood watch until 1:15 p.m. Friday, and citizens are urged not to get out on the roads before then, if at all today, unless absolutely necessary.
That’s because even main roads are treacherous after heavy rains, estimated to be in excess of six inches in some places, and trees and power lines were downed.
High winds are also continuing through Friday, with gusts in parts of the East Cobb area topping 40 mph.
Cobb DOT said Friday morning that Columns Drive in East Cobb, along the Chattahoochee River, is closed between Atlanta Country Club Drive and Riverlook Parkway.
A reader sent the following photos from her backyard on Columns Drive that extends to the river. Click the middle button to start the slideshow:
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
In Northeast Cobb, Blackwell Road is closed between Fowler Drive and Windridge Drive (east of Canton Road) because of downed power lines.
Cobb government said its crews have already dealt with 55 downed trees on roads, 11 flooded roads and eight reports of traffic lights being out.
In addition, flood warnings are in effect along most rivers and major streams and creeks in Cobb, including the Chattahoochee River and Noonday Creek.
Cobb Police said in a social media posting that the Bells Ferry Trailhead at Noonday Creek “saw quite a bit of water buildup, now it’s more of a ‘Trail-Lake’—serious flooding over there, so maybe skip that hike for now!”
A reader sent the photo below of flooded soccer fields at Noonday Park:
We haven’t heard of any such warnings along Sope Creek in East Cobb, but the U.S. Geological Survey indicated water levels above 12 feet.
The reader who sent the photo above tells us that the creek “looks like it’s about to come over the bridge on Columns where it dumps into the Chattahoochee.”
Another East Cobb resident posted this video of Sope Creek at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area:
We’d also like to share your information/photos/videos of storm conditions near you with the community. If it’s safe, please e-mail editor@eastcobbnews.com or text 404-219.4278.
Nearly 1 million Georgia electrical customers were without power Friday morning after Helene barged in from Florida as a Category 2 storm, then was downgraded to a tropical storm as it approached metro Atlanta.
More than 5,000 electrical customers in Cobb County are without power as of mid-Friday morning, according to Georgia Power and Cobb EMC, which provide most service to the East Cobb area.
According to Georgia Power, roughly 1,000 East Cobb customers are without electricity, while Cobb EMC reports that an estimated 750 customers in East Cobb are reporting outages.
Another Columns Drive reader sent us this video showing the extent of the flooding, and how it trapped residents for hours:
Much heavier wind damage and flooding occurred east of the metro area. Gov. Brian Kemp said at a news briefing Friday morning that 11 deaths have been reported across Georgia, including a first responder.
As the storm gathered in the Gulf of Mexico, a rare tropical storm warning was issued for north Georgia, with gusts as high as 73 mph anticipated.
Winds were expected to gust between 30-40 mph through Friday afternoon, with partly sunny skies also in the forecast as Helene moved north out of Georgia.
Cooler temperatures also greeted the passage of the storm, in the mid-60s on Friday morning, as the weather improves for the weekend.
Sun and highs in the high 70s return for the weekend and temperatures will be back in the low 80s next week.
But for the rest of Friday, you’re asked to stay put if possible while the cleanup work continues.
If/when you do get out, do not try and drive through a flooded area. You’re asked to call 911 or Georgia Power/Cobb EMC immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.
Cobb government said if you have structural property damage to report, you can do so by clicking here.
An aerial photo of a flooded golf course at Indian Hills Country Club, posted on its social media account:
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Rain ahead of Hurricane Helene was already waterlogging major roads in East Cobb Thursday, including the Roswell-East Piedmont intersection.
UPDATED, FRIDAY, 11 A.M.:
Here’s our report on the latest road conditions, power outages and more in the East Cobb area on Friday morning. You’re asked to avoid travel as much as possible due as work crews are addressing flooding and downed power lines and trees.
A few roads are closed, and rivers and creeks are overflowing, including Sope Creek in East Cobb.
Overall, our area was spared the worst of Helene.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
State and local authorities continued to warn citizens to take extreme precautions Thursday as Hurricane Helene is set to move into Georgia with anticipated tropical storm-force winds and heavy rains.
Between 4-8 inches of rain is predicted for the Cobb area as the hurricane moves inland from the Big Bend coastline of Florida, where it’s expected to reach landfall Thursday night as least as a Category 3 storm.
In addition, sustained winds in excess of 50 mph and gusts up to 60 mph could take place in the metro Atlanta starting late Thursday night and into Friday.
Emergency officials are urging citizens to prepare for flooding, heavy property damage and extended power outages in what could be life-threatening conditions.
“Due to the intensity and fast forward motion, unprecedented wind and flooding impacts, rivaling or exceeding those of Hurricanes Opal (1995), Irma (2017) and Michael (2018), are expected across the north and central Georgia,” the National Weather Service said in a statement Thursday afternoon.
Local response
Cobb government issued statements Thursday morning closing offices, including libraries, through Friday, and Chairwoman Lisa Cupid issued a countywide state of emergency to allow “the county to quickly access state and federal resources that may be needed after the storm passes.
“I encourage everyone to take precautions and avoid travel during the storm,” she said. “Forecasters are predicting high winds and heavy rainfall. With the amount of rain we’ve already received, flooding is likely. If you live in a flood-prone area, please assess whether it is necessary to relocate to a safer location.”
Cobb DOT crews will operate on 12-hour shifts starting Thursday night to handle calls about downed trees, blocked roads and flooding.
Cobb spokesman Ross Cavitt said the Cobb Emergency Management Agency will activate its Emergency Operations Center, “and a combined police and fire incident command will coordinate the emergency response. Additionally, 911 will increase its number of operators to manage the expected surge in calls and dispatch emergency responders.”
He added that “during the peak of the storm, anticipated on Friday morning, residents are asked to call 911 only for immediate emergencies. For non-emergency assistance, a list of contact numbers is available on the Helene Information page at cobbcounty.org.”
Latest conditions
The NWS said that the majority of Georgia has an “80-90 percent chance of seeing tropical storm force winds” from late Thursday afternoon until as late as Friday afternoon.
Those winds range from 38 mph to 73 mph.
“The strongest winds and wind gusts will continue to be found on the eastern side of the storm and may change with small wobbles in the forecast track,” the NWS message said.
Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a statewide emergency, and hurricane warnings have been issued for southwest Georgia.
Cobb and most of the rest of Georgia are under a flash flood watch and a tropical storm warning until Friday afternoon.
Tornadoes also are expected to materialize during Helene’s onslaught into Georgia, and tornado warnings have been in effect in parts of south and middle Georgia Thursday afternoon,
The storm center is expected to pass over the metro Atlanta area by 7 a.m. Friday, but winds and rain from Helene will be arriving before that.
“The worst of the system is expected to arrive between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m.,” the Cobb Emergency Management Agency said Thursday.
“With this being the case, the GREATEST risk is overnight. As you prepare to go to bed tonight, make sure any supplies you may need are in an easy to access area. Power outages may make it difficult to collect items after the storm system has arrived, so stage it TODAY before you may need it! Don’t forget to plan for small children and pets.”
The area has been watterlogged by 2-5 inches of rain thus far from unrelated rain showers since Wednesday, prompting further warnings for those living near creeks, streams, rivers and other bodies of water.
Water levels at Sope Creek in East Cobb were already surging to nearly five feet (see map).
Numerous local businesses in East Cobb were altering their schedules or closing early or cancelling activities.
Staying safe
Local and state authorities have been sending out messages on how to prepare for what could be catastrophic conditions for several days:
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include at least a gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, necessary medications, a multi-tool, and a whistle. Don’t forget items like batteries, a manual can opener, and personal hygiene products.
Secure Your Home: Bring in or secure any outdoor furniture, decorations, and equipment that could be damaged or become projectiles. Check windows and doors to ensure they are properly sealed.
Prepare for Power Outages: Charge power banks for devices and have extra batteries for flashlights. Consider investing in a generator if you live in an area prone to outages, and make sure you have candles and matches as backups.
Avoid Floodwaters: Even shallow water can be dangerous, hiding debris or strong currents. Stay informed about local weather conditions and heed warnings from authorities.
Know Evacuation Plans: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a go-bag ready with essentials like clothing, cash, and important documents. Discuss a meeting place with family in case you get separated.
Power outages
Gather emergency contact information for your electricity provider to report power outages, downed lines, etc., and to receive messages and alerts.
Georgia Power is preparing an outage map and has compiled safety information here; Cobb EMC provides similar resources here.
Contact info:
Acworth Power – 770-293-9557
Atlanta Gas Light – 877-427-4321
Marietta Power – Emergency 770-794-5160
Cobb EMC – Power Outage 770-429-2100, then press 3
Georgia Power – 888-660-5890
Greystone Power – 770-942-6576
Officials are warning that the outages could be extensive. Georgia Power offers additional tips:
Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advice from officials, and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.
During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects and water.
After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.
Travel cautions
Authorities are asking citizens to avoid driving if at all possible on Friday morning, even on major roads, which are already struggling to absorb pre-Helene rains.
If you must drive, do not try to drive through a flooded area.
“Turn around, don’t drown! An estimated 2-3 inches of rain has already fallen due to unrelated storms,” Cobb EMA Said.
We can expect an additional 4-6 inches. This may present as flash flooding and may be extremely dangerous. DO NOT wade in storm water. Remember: 6 inches of water is enough to knock over a person and 12 inches is enough to carry a vehicle. Do not attempt to cross moving waters.”
Cobb EMA said the storm system from Helene is expected to clear out of the area by between 1-3 p.m. Friday.
Every Sunday we round up the week’s top headlines and preview the upcoming week in the East Cobb News Digest. Click here to sign up, and you’re good to go!
Tropical storm Helene was declared a hurricane on Wednesday as it approaches the Florida gulf coast, and emergency declarations for Georgia have been heightened for most of the state.
That includes a tropical storm warning covering most of metro Atlanta and north Georgia, by the National Weather Service. Helene is expected to make landfall in the “Big Bend” coastal area of Florida on Thursday, possibly as a Category 4 storm (130 mph winds).
“This could be an unprecedented event for north and central Georgia given the expected track and strength of Helene,” the National Weather Service in Peachtree City said in a briefing Wednesday around noon (you can watch it below).
That’s because forecasters say the storm, which has been fast-moving as it treks across the Gulf of Mexico, will continue to move quickly inland.
Tropical storm-caliber winds (45 mph to 55 mph) may include gusts up to 75 mph in some areas, according to the NWS forecast, with the greatest risk coming early Friday morning (overnight hours) through early Friday afternoon.
Tornadoes are possible for areas east of the storm path. Thus far, Cobb is not included in that likely area.
Cobb has been under a flood watch since 2 p.m. Wednesday, an alert that continues through 2 p.m. Thursday.
Light rain began falling in Cobb on Wednesday afternoon, unrelated to Helene.
But the storms and winds associated with Helene are expected to increase significantly.
The NWS is predicting that the center of the storm will pass over metro Atlanta as it moves further north, dropping between 4-7 inches of rain.
The high winds could be devastating, as local governments and emergency agencies are encouraging citizens to prepare for the worst.
That includes the possibility of property damage, long power outages, heavy flooding in waterways and on roads and scattered debris.
Cobb government is updating information and providing resources at this link; there’s no word yet on county closures.
The North Georgia State Fair in Cobb County has been cancelled for Wednesday and Thursday.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is closed on Friday.
The Atlanta Braves series at Truist Park against the New York Mets also has been put on hold. Wednesday and Thursday games will be made up as part of a Monday doubleheader as the Braves trail the Mets by a game in a battle for a playoff spot.
Some metro Atlanta school districts are cancelling classes as well. The Cobb County School District is on fall break this week.
Cobb government said Tuesday that the county DOT will have extra crews on stand-by to respond to flooded roads and emergencies.
Here’s what local emergency authorities are asking citizens to do to prepare:
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include at least a gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, necessary medications, a multi-tool, and a whistle. Don’t forget items like batteries, a manual can opener, and personal hygiene products.
Secure Your Home: Bring in or secure any outdoor furniture, decorations, and equipment that could be damaged or become projectiles. Check windows and doors to ensure they are properly sealed.
Prepare for Power Outages: Charge power banks for devices and have extra batteries for flashlights. Consider investing in a generator if you live in an area prone to outages, and make sure you have candles and matches as backups.
Avoid Floodwaters: Even shallow water can be dangerous, hiding debris or strong currents. Stay informed about local weather conditions and heed warnings from authorities.
Know Evacuation Plans: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a go-bag ready with essentials like clothing, cash, and important documents. Discuss a meeting place with family in case you get separated.
Georgia Power is preparing an outage map and has compiled safety information here; Cobb EMC provides similar resources here.
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Every Sunday we round up the week’s top headlines and preview the upcoming week in the East Cobb News Digest. Click here to sign up, and you’re good to go!
Tropical storm Helene is expected to be upgraded to a hurricane as it approaches the Florida panhandle later this week.
The National Weather Service in Atlanta is forecasting plenty of heavy rain the storm moves inland north into Georgia, and has included Cobb County and much of Georgia in a flood watch starting Wednesday afternoon.
That watch period starts at 2 p.m. Wednesday and extends to 2 p.m. Friday, according to the NWS, which is predicting that those areas of the state in the watch could get between 4-7 inches of rain during that period.
The storm is expected to pass by the Yucatan Peninsula Wednesday and is tracking toward the Florida coastal “Big Bend” area east of the panhandle. It could become a Category 3 hurricane by the time it reaches landfall Thursday.
Here’s more from the NWS about the projected path of Helene and the likely conditions. More NWS-related links here.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency through Oct. 2, and the Georgia Emergency Management Association is urging citizens to prepare for “significant” power outages, downed trees and even tornadoes east of the main storm path.
The watch notice states that “widespread torrential rainfall is expected to then overspread the area on Thursday into Thursday night as Tropical Storm Helene approaches.”
Temperatures will be cooling as a result, with Wednesday’s high expected around 80. The chance of rain in the Cobb area is 70 percent, and between a half and three-quarters of an inch of rain in expected.
On Thursday, more heavy rainfall is in the forecast, with a 90 percent chance of showers and a high in the low 70s. The wind also could gust up to 25 mph.
Friday’s chance of rain is around 50 percent, with highs in the high 70s.
The heavy rainfall amounts could cause rivers, streams, ponds and lakes to rise and pose dangers on the roads.
The NWS said late Tuesday that the metro Atlanta area is in the highest risk area for flash flooding Wednesday into Thursday (see map below).
Cobb government said Tuesday that the county DOT will have extra crews on stand-by to respond to flooded roads and emergencies.
Cobb Police on Tuesday issued the following preparedness message:
1. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Stock essential supplies, including water, food, and medications.
2. Secure Your Home: Safeguard outdoor items.
3. Prepare for Power Outages: Charge devices and have flashlights ready.
4. Avoid Floodwaters: Don’t walk or drive through flooded areas.
5. Know Evacuation Plans: Be ready to evacuate if advised by authorities.
Georgia Power is preparing an outage map and has compiled safety information here; Cobb EMC provides similar resources here.
Both electrical providers are encouraging their customers to enroll for text alerts and to receive other messages.
Get Our Free E-Mail Newsletter!
Every Sunday we round up the week’s top headlines and preview the upcoming week in the East Cobb News Digest. Click here to sign up, and you’re good to go!
