Winter Storm Fern entered Georgia on Saturday, bringing freezing rain and subfreezing temperatures that are expected to cause power outages across much of the state overnight. Georgia Power has prepared for the storm by mobilizing more than 10,000 personnel, including its own staff, contract companies, and partner utilities.
The forecast indicates that ice accumulation will add weight to tree branches, increasing the likelihood of them falling onto power lines. Even small amounts of ice can damage infrastructure, and the risk grows with greater accumulation. Wind is also a factor in bringing down trees and limbs onto power lines.
Georgia Power stated that once conditions are safe, crews will begin assessing damage as the first step in restoring service. “Damage assessment is an essential part of efficient restoration and marks the beginning of the process once the storm has left impacted areas.” Assessment teams will evaluate damage levels and material needs before vegetation crews clear debris for repair teams.
Crews are ready to work continuously to restore power safely and quickly; however, extended outages may occur due to the scale of Winter Storm Fern. The company reminded customers about post-storm hazards: “Georgia Power reminds customers that dangerous conditions exist following a storm, and to always heed the advice of local, state, and federal emergency authorities in storm-affected areas.”
Safety tips include watching for downed wires hidden by debris or trees, using portable generators according to manufacturer instructions outside enclosed spaces, never touching downed wires or attempting to remove branches from them due to electrocution risk, avoiding standing water where lines may be present, steering clear of chain link fences that could conduct electricity from unseen lines over long distances, and being cautious around utility crews working statewide.
Georgia Power provides several resources for customers during storms:
– Outage Alerts via text message for those subscribed.
– An Outage & Storm Center at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm where customers can update contact information, report outages or check status at any time.
– An interactive Outage Map showing near real-time outage locations and estimated restoration times.
– A mobile app available for Apple and Android devices with access to outage information.
– Updates through @GeorgiaPower on Facebook (facebook.com/GeorgiaPower).
The company also urges drivers to follow guidance from state officials such as the Georgia Department of Transportation regarding road conditions. In addition, motorists should move over for stopped utility vehicles as required by law in Georgia after major storms.
