The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), in collaboration with the National Weather Service, is gearing up for Winter Weather Preparedness Week, set for Dec. 2-6. During this week, Georgians are encouraged to educate themselves about winter weather threats, update or develop a family communications plan and ensure their Ready Kits are equipped with essential items to prepare for potential inclement weather this winter.
“As we transition from hurricane season into the winter months, the need for preparation continues,” said GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings. “In past years, Georgia has experienced extreme cold, snow, ice and freezing rain which highlights the importance of being ready ahead of a disaster. Winter Weather Preparedness Week is the perfect opportunity for everyone to learn how to prepare and respond before, during and after winter weather events.”
Winter Weather Preparedness Week is designed to raise awareness of winter weather hazards and reinforce understanding of winter weather terminology. GEMA/HS will distribute winter weather preparedness information via social media channels and provide toolkits to local emergency management directors for sharing this information in their counties all week long.
Each day of the campaign will address a topic.
— Monday, Dec. 2: Winter weather in Georgia, learn about winter weather hazards that can impact the state.
— Tuesday, Dec. 3: Winter weather terminology, learn about winter weather “alerts” (watches, warnings and advisories) and what they mean.
— Wednesday, Dec. 4: Winter weather preparation tips, learn how to best prepare for winter weather events, and put together a Ready Kit while making a plan before winter weather strikes.
— Thursday, Dec. 5: Winter weather driving tips/safety, learn “best practices” for driving (if necessary) in winter weather conditions and how to pack a mobile Ready Kit.
— Friday, Dec. 6: Winter weather outlook for the 2024-25 season, resources for learning where and how to stay informed of weather forecasts.
Residents are encouraged to visit gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for more information on winter weather preparedness tips.
Submitted by the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.