There is a winter weather warning for metro Atlanta from 10 a.m. today until 10 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday). It is expected to start raining and sleeting and then turn to snow. The precipitation is expected to stick and Decatur could see up to 3.5” of snow by morning. By 11 a.m. Thursday the temperature is expected to rise into the 40s.
All city buildings are currently open and will close by 5 p.m. today, including City Hall and the Decatur Recreation Center. All evening activities and classes at the Decatur Recreation Center are CANCELLED for tonight.
Georgia DOT asks motorists to limit driving to emergencies or essential travel only. Be aware of black ice. If you do decide to leave your house, especially once temperatures drop below freezing after dark, there is likely to be ice on the roads and sidewalks.
City Schools of Decatur are closed today. CSD will post its decision regarding school tomorrow on its website.
As of this posting tomorrow, Thursday, Feb. 26:
- All city of Decatur offices and buildings will have a delayed opening of 10 a.m. This includes City Hall, Design Environment & Construction and the Decatur Recreation Center.
- Thursday trash and recycling pick up is expected to take place as usual
- Municipal Court will occur as scheduled at 6 p.m.
Important phone numbers
- If you see hazardous or unsafe conditions in Decatur, or require assistance from police or fire, please call the police non-emergency number: 404-373-6551.
- Report icy conditions on interstates and state routes to GDOT: 511.
- Power outages or trees on power lines should be reported directly to Georgia Power: 1-888-891-0938.
Prevent burst pipes
As the temperatures drop, pipes in your home or business are likely to freeze unless you take necessary precautions. The easiest way to prevent burst pipes is to leave your sink running with a small stream of water (a drip is not enough) before you go to bed.
Reminders
- Be neighborly and take a few minutes to check on the seniors in your neighborhood. See if you can bring in their mail or wood or something else they may need, and make sure they have plenty of heat, food and water. Sometimes simply being checked on is greatly appreciated when staying indoors gets to be lonely. If you have a neighbor who needs help please call the police non-emergency number at 404-373-6551.
- Bring all pets inside.
- Register for Smart911 now at Smart911.com. You can opt-in for severe weather and other notifications as well as create or update your Smart911 profile with any special medical concerns (such as a household member who uses medical equipment that requires electricity).
- Charge all cell phones and put fresh batteries in emergency radios. When contacting loved ones, a text message is more likely to get through than a phone call.
- Download the FEMA smartphone app for additional tips and emergency information.