Winter Storm Cora’s Path and Potential for Georgia
While Winter Storm Blair wreaked havoc on states like Missouri, Arkansas, and Kentucky, Winter Storm Cora is expected to make its own mark on the U.S. over the weekend. The storm’s exact trajectory remains uncertain, but Georgia could still see effects from this late-season weather pattern.
According to the NWS, Georgia’s residents should be aware of some significant temperature drops in the coming days, even if heavy snow and ice don’t materialize as much as in other states. The state will experience a chill, with temperatures dropping to a range between 22 and 30 degrees in cities like Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta. While snow might not be widespread, this cold could be accompanied by rain or some icy conditions, particularly in the northern parts of Georgia.
How Cold Will Georgia Get?
This week will bring some of the coldest temperatures Georgia has seen this winter, with freezing nights expected across many regions. Specifically:
- Atlanta, Athens, Augusta: Low temperatures between 22°F to 30°F.
- Savannah: Warmer temperatures, with lows likely to stay above freezing throughout the week.
Though the temperatures will be cold, daytime highs will be more moderate. Georgia residents can expect clear skies and temperatures ranging from 40°F to 55°F, depending on the area. The chilly nights and relatively mild days are expected to last for several days, leading into the weekend.
Will Snow or Ice Reach Georgia?
The big question on everyone’s mind is whether Georgia will see snow, ice, or sleet from Winter Storm Cora. While some areas to the north, such as parts of Tennessee and the Carolinas, are bracing for more significant winter weather, Georgia is likely to avoid the worst of it. The NWS office in Atlanta has indicated that, while North Georgia might see some winter weather on Friday night and into Saturday, it is unlikely to be severe.
Potential Impacts on Georgia:
- North Georgia: Some snow or sleet is expected, particularly in mountainous regions. Areas like Athens and the northern suburbs of Atlanta could experience light accumulation or icy conditions.
- Metro Atlanta and Central Georgia: Likely to see no significant snow or ice. Instead, residents may encounter a few chilly, wet days with rainfall.
- Southern Georgia: Generally free from winter weather, with warmer temperatures and rain being the main concerns.
The Forecast from Major Weather Services
Both the Weather Channel and AccuWeather have weighed in on the possibility of winter weather in Georgia. According to their projections, Friday into Saturday could bring a mix of snow, sleet, and ice to parts of Georgia, especially north of the metro Atlanta area. However, the amounts expected are relatively low, and much of the precipitation may fall as rain rather than snow.
This means that while North Georgia residents might need to prepare for some slippery roads, the majority of Georgia is unlikely to see any major disruptions from Winter Storm Cora.
What to Expect in Georgia This Week
As the weekend approaches, here’s a snapshot of the weather Georgia residents can expect:
- Friday: Cold temperatures with a chance of light snow or sleet in the northern regions. Clear skies for much of the rest of the state.
- Saturday and Sunday: Mild and dry conditions for the majority of the state. Cold nights, but daytime highs should remain above freezing.
- Northern Georgia: The best chance for any snow or sleet. Be prepared for possible icy roads.
Although Winter Storm Cora may not pack the same punch as previous storms, Georgia residents are urged to monitor forecasts closely, especially if they live in the northern part of the state. The combination of low temperatures and potential icy conditions could lead to slippery roads, making travel tricky in some areas.
