DeKalb County Activates Winter Weather Response Under State of Emergency

DeKalb County has activated a coordinated, countywide response in advance of severe winter weather expected to impact the region. Operating under a declared State of Emergency, County leadership is working across departments and with state and regional partners to ensure public safety, infrastructure readiness, and continuity of essential services.

The DeKalb County Emergency Operations Center is coordinating response efforts through virtual operations and regular briefings with public safety agencies, public works, utilities, and external partners. County officials are maintaining situational awareness and adjusting response plans as weather conditions evolve.

Public Works crews and contractors have applied ice melt to County facilities, sidewalks, and building entrances, with priority given to police stations, fire stations, hospitals, warming centers, and other critical locations. Backup generators and heating equipment have been installed and tested at key facilities, including frontline service locations and the DeKalb County Animal Shelter. Tree contractors and debris removal teams are staged and prepared to respond quickly to downed trees or roadway obstructions.

DeKalb County Fire Rescue and Police departments have confirmed operational readiness ahead of the storm. Emergency vehicles have been equipped for hazardous road conditions, generators have been tested and fueled, and personnel and equipment have been pre-staged to ensure rapid response as conditions deteriorate.

The County is coordinating closely with state and regional partners. The Georgia Department of Transportation has completed brining operations and treated roadways and bridges throughout the metro area. Georgia Power has staged crews and contractors across the region to respond to potential power outages. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has activated the State Operations Center to support local government response efforts.

According to weather forecasts, a significant winter storm with ice accumulation is expected, creating dangerous travel conditions and increasing the likelihood of downed trees, power outages, and prolonged cold exposure. Extremely low temperatures are forecast to persist into early next week, increasing the risk of frozen pipes and cold-related hazards, particularly in areas without electricity.

County officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare for potential power outages, protect pipes and pets, and closely monitor official DeKalb County communications for updates and safety guidance.

DeKalb County will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating response efforts throughout the storm. Additional public updates will be issued as conditions change.

For the most up-to-date information, residents should visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov and follow official DeKalb County communication channels IG: @dekalbcountyga and FB: @itsindekalb