The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) has increased its winter weather response efforts as snow, slick roads, and extreme cold continue to affect much of the state. The agency is deploying about 50 additional trucks from other regions to assist with plowing and treating major routes including I-85, I-985, SR 316, SR 400, and SR 441.
Crews are applying both salt and calcium chloride to help melt snow and prevent refreezing on the roads. Calcium chloride is being used more selectively due to its effectiveness in extremely cold conditions. The department warns that very low temperatures have heightened the risk of black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and wet roadways.
“Motorists are still urged to stay off the roads, but those who must travel should remain vigilant and understand that while snow may no longer be falling, hazards on the roadways may persist. Be mindful of Georgia DOT crews and slow down, move over, and be aware that even treated and plowed roads may still have slick spots. High winds associated with this system may help dry some roadways but can also pose hazards, including blowing snow, reduced visibility, and the potential for downed trees or debris,” according to a statement from Georgia DOT.
The department’s HERO (Highway Emergency Response Operators) and CHAMP (Coordinated Highway Assistance & Maintenance Program) units continue operating around the clock to assist drivers. Those needing help or wishing to report conditions are encouraged to call 511 hands-free.
Express lanes along I-75 South Metro and I-75 Northwest Corridor reopened Saturday evening after temporary closures. The I-85 Express Lanes remain under observation for treatment as needed with plans for reopening soon.
Statewide traffic volumes have dropped sharply during the storm; in some parts of northeast and central Georgia where snowfall was heaviest, traffic declined by up to 90 percent compared with normal levels. Motorists are strongly advised not to drive in these areas so crews can work safely.
For updated information on roadway conditions or assistance requests regarding interstates or state routes in Georgia during winter weather events like this one, motorists can visit https://511ga.org/. Governor Brian P. Kemp’s State of Emergency remains active across affected regions.
Georgia DOT will keep monitoring weather impacts throughout the event period: “Georgia DOT will continue monitoring conditions and adjusting operations as needed throughout the event.” Updates will be posted via social media channels including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram as well as through their website.
The agency oversees planning, construction, maintenance of highways across Georgia along with involvement in bridge projects; public transit; rail; aviation; bike/pedestrian programs; waterway management; local government support; all carried out by nearly 4,000 employees focused on safety innovation sustainability mobility statewide.
