The National Weather Service (NWS) reports a long-duration cold event could create dangerous conditions across north Georgia this week.
An “extreme cold warning” was issued late Sunday night through Monday morning. Large areas of the state are not expected to get above freezing temperatures again until Thursday afternoon.
The NWS says with similar experiences in the past, problems begin after about 48 hours below freezing. They are highly confident that the entire state will exceed this 48 hour threshold.
NWS states that with freezing temperatures, it’s important to “protect the four Ps.” That’s your pets, pipes, plants and vulnerable populations.
In long-duration cold events, people are encouraged to stay inside, prepare for power outages and check on the elderly and other vulnerable people to make sure they’re OK. If you must go outside, be sure to dress in layers.
To protect pipes, the NWS says to insulate them if possible, open sink cabinets to expose pipes to heated air, turn off water to sprinklers and disconnect hoses.
Keep your pets warm, dry and indoors as much as possible. People are recommended to cover their plants before cold weather sets in to help retain some heat.
Snow is predicted to impact central and south Georgia through Wednesday, with no precipitation expected in Gilmer County.