Cold Weather Settling Into North Georgia and Western North Carolina

While parts of Clay, Cherokee, Towns and Union counties saw impacts from the weekend winter storm, the region largely avoided the worst of the system.

Light snow and ice were reported in some higher elevations, along with slick road conditions late Saturday and early Sunday. However, accumulations were minimal for most communities, sparing the area from the heavier snowfall and widespread power outages seen elsewhere across the Southeast.

Despite the limited storm impact, dangerously cold temperatures followed overnight. Lows dropped well below freezing, causing any remaining moisture on roadways, sidewalks and bridges to refreeze, creating hazardous travel conditions in spots early Monday morning.

Local officials urged motorists to use caution, particularly during the morning commute, as shaded areas and elevated roadways were most susceptible to black ice.

Several schools across the region announced delayed starts Monday, while others opted to close out of an abundance of caution. A number of businesses also adjusted operating hours or remained closed due to lingering icy conditions and the extreme cold.

Emergency management agencies said crews were monitoring conditions but noted that response calls were fewer than initially anticipated.

The cold air mass responsible for the frigid temperatures is expected to remain in place throughout the week. Forecasts call for below-average temperatures each night, with overnight lows continuing to dip into the teens and 20s across much of the region.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions against the prolonged cold, including protecting exposed pipes, checking on vulnerable neighbors and ensuring pets are kept warm.

While no additional winter precipitation is currently expected, officials say the persistent cold could continue to create isolated icy conditions during overnight and early morning hours.