Ice remains a significant concern across north and north-central Georgia as Georgia Department of Transportation crews continue monitoring and treating roadways amid ongoing winter storm impacts and sharply colder temperatures.
According to Georgia DOT, maintenance teams worked throughout Sunday and continued operations overnight, treating, re-treating and plowing interstates and state routes as conditions allow. Officials cautioned that work may be temporarily suspended if conditions become too hazardous for crew safety. Several road closures, primarily in northeast Georgia, remain in effect due to icy conditions and storm debris.
As part of the state’s response, Georgia DOT crews applied an additional 115,000 gallons of brine Sunday, bringing the statewide total to more than 1.5 million gallons since operations began Friday. Crews also applied approximately 1,350 tons of aggregate and 450 tons of salt to priority routes in the hardest-hit areas. Critical infrastructure north and northeast of Interstate 20 was treated, with a focus on Interstate 85 and State Route 400.
DOT officials said that as conditions worsen, crews may shift to maintaining a single passable lane on portions of I-85, I-285 and SR 400. That lane would be the outside lane connected to entrance and exit ramps, allowing resources to be concentrated where they are most effective and ensuring interstates remain passable.
A travel advisory remains in effect, with motorists strongly urged to stay off roadways if possible. Although precipitation is expected to exit the region, gusty winds and falling temperatures are expected to cause widespread refreezing, even on previously treated surfaces. Officials warned that black ice could create extremely dangerous driving conditions, particularly overnight and into the morning hours.
Georgia DOT is urging residents to avoid travel through Monday if possible. Drivers who must be on the road are advised to reduce speeds, increase following distances and use caution at intersections, particularly if traffic signals are dark due to power outages. Intersections without power should be treated as four-way stops.
Motorists encountering debris from fallen trees or limbs are warned not to attempt to clear roadways themselves, as downed power lines may be present. Debris and roadway hazards should be reported by dialing 511 hands-free.
All Georgia Express Lanes remain closed until further notice, including the I-75 Northwest Corridor Express Lanes, I-75 South Metro Express Lanes and both I-85 Express Lanes facilities.
Georgia DOT encourages motorists to check current conditions, road closures and travel advisories by visiting 511ga.org or dialing 511. Drivers can also request HERO or CHAMP roadside assistance through the 511 system. Updates will continue to be posted on Georgia DOT’s social media channels as conditions evolve.