Winter storm in western Georgia: Crews and residents gear up

LITHIA SPRINGS, Ga. - Emergency crews and residents in western Georgia spent Thursday preparing for a winter storm expected to bring freezing rain, ice, and gusty winds Friday morning. While heavy snow is not anticipated along the Interstate 20 corridor, the potential for hazardous road conditions has sparked a flurry of activity.

At the Ace Hardware store in Lithia Springs, employees reported brisk business as customers stocked up on winter essentials. "It’s been pretty busy," said Michael Wallace, a store clerk. Items like shovels, heaters, and rock salt were in high demand. "We have no sleds right now," Wallace added, noting how quickly supplies were running out.

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Over at Harbor Freight, customers encountered empty shelves where generators had been earlier in the day. Charlotte Dollar, a Lithia Springs resident, described her experience searching for storm supplies. "I went to another store to get the kerosene and came back here because the other store didn’t have the heater," she said.

Local horse owners are also making preparations to protect their animals. Shannon Carter, a horse farmer in South Douglas County, shared her concerns. "The biggest concern is their reduced water intake, which can lead to impactions and colics," she explained, adding that she was able to purchase supplies to safeguard her horses.

The most sought-after item across the region has been rock salt, with stores running out quickly. "None at all—it was the fastest moving thing to go," Wallace said.

At the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency’s operations center, crews are prioritizing preparations for icy roads. Director James Queen emphasized the challenges posed by freezing rain. "The ice is going to cause a lot of problems… run into black ice problems, as well," he said.

Emergency officials are urging residents to complete their shopping early and avoid traveling on Friday. Salt trucks are on standby to treat roads as conditions deteriorate.

The calm before the storm has given way to determined efforts to mitigate its potential impact, with residents and authorities alike bracing for what’s to come.