Press Releases

DECATUR, Ga. – Due to forecasted freezing temperatures and hazardous wind chills, DeKalb County will activate warming centers beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26, continuing through Friday, January 30, 2026.

DeKalb County officials announced that normal County services and operations will resume on Tuesday, January 27, following updated weather information and improved conditions related to Winter Storm Fern. County leadership had previously anticipated extended impacts from the storm; however, updated weather information and current weather predictions now allow for a safe return to normal operations. As a result, County government buildings will reopen, and in-person services, programs, and operations will resume as scheduled.

DeKalb County continues to respond to the impacts of Winter Storm Fern, with countywide operations focused on road safety, emergency response, power restoration coordination, and resident support. The County remains under a declared State of Emergency, and federal assistance has been approved to support local response efforts. The federal government has approved FEMA Emergency Declaration 3632, allowing reimbursement to assist DeKalb County and other local governments with expenses incurred to protect life and property during the storm.

Due to continued inclement winter weather conditions, all DeKalb County government offices, buildings, and in-person County-sponsored programming will remain closed and canceled through Tuesday, January 27, 2026. County employees should not report to County facilities during this period. Employees who are able to work remotely are expected to do so, unless otherwise directed by their department leadership. Employees whose duties cannot be performed virtually will receive specific instructions from their respective departments.

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.