The National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston 6 am briefing on Sunday, January 19, 2025 continues a forecast for the Statesboro area that includes dangerously cold temperatures, wind chills, and winter weather which are expected to impact southeast Georgia early next week. The forecast calls for snow and freezing rain that could create hazardous conditions and disrupt travel.
Key Weather Impacts
- Snow and Ice Accumulations: Precipitation is expected to shift to snow Tuesday afternoon into the evening. Accumulations of 1 to 2 inches of snow are possible in the Statesboro area. Some freezing rain may mix in, particularly later in the week, with ice accumulation likely staying under 0.20 inches.
- Dangerous Wind Chills: Bitterly cold temperatures will grip the region, with wind chills dropping to dangerously low levels Tuesday night through Wednesday night. Low temperatures may approach record levels Wednesday night.
- Extended Cold Snap: The area will experience an extended period of frigid weather, with risks for freezing rain returning Thursday morning and again Friday morning.
Timing and Greatest Impacts
- Tuesday Afternoon to Wednesday Morning: This time frame poses the greatest risk for significant impacts from snow and freezing rain.
- Wednesday Night: Near-record low temperatures are expected, creating hazardous wind chills.
- Thursday and Friday Mornings: Low-end chances for freezing rain could continue to create slick roadways and travel challenges.
Travel Hazards
Residents should prepare for treacherous driving conditions, especially on untreated roads. Any wet surfaces from precipitation are likely to refreeze as temperatures plunge, prolonging the risk for icy roadways through Thursday.
GA DOT Treating Roadways
Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) crews will begin brine operations in Southeast Georgia on Sun., Jan. 19, ahead of what is expected to be a statewide winter weather event. Local Georgia DOT crews will be working 12-hour shifts for the duration of the event, starting with brine application. Georgia DOT maintenance forces will begin by brining I-95 and I-16.
Preparation Tips
- Stay tuned to trusted weather updates and alerts for the latest information.
- Ensure your home is winterized, with proper insulation for pipes and adequate heating sources.
- Keep a supply of essential items, including food, water, and medications, in case of power outages.
- Exercise caution if traveling. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
Looking Ahead
The track of a low-pressure system moving offshore will play a significant role in determining the type and intensity of precipitation in the region. Coastal areas may see a mix of freezing rain and snow, while interior locations like Statesboro are more likely to experience all snow.
Click here for current weather forcast from NWS Charleston.
Bulloch VOAD Warming Shelter to Provide Refuge
The Bulloch VOAD warming shelter at Pittman Park UMC will offer a safe haven for residents seeking relief from the cold. The shelter will provide warmth, food, and essential supplies. Currently, the shelter is scheduled to open at 5 PM Monday. The doors will stay open until 10 PM. No readmittance after 10 PM. All guests must be inside before the doors are locked.They will decide daily if there is a need to remain open and the hours of operation.
Support shelter efforts
If you would like to help support the warming shelter and other potential relief efforts from the winter storm you can give now to Bulloch Strong. All contributions will remain in our community to support disaster efforts. Click here to contribute now.
Bulloch Schools Statement
Bulloch County Schools is monitoring official weather sources and preparing for the possibility of severe winter weather next week.
The district is also maintaining contact with the Bulloch County Emergency Management Agency. The school district will make a final decision by 5 p.m. on Monday, January 20, regarding any necessary changes to the school schedule for Tuesday and the rest of the week.
Any changes to the school district’s operations will be communicated to families via the district's mass messaging systems using telephone, email and text messages, plus social media and local media. Remain alert and make plans for your family now in case there are any disruptions to the school schedule.
Code Red Alert
The City of Statesboro and Bulloch County announce a partnership to implement the CodeRED system, a high-speed emergency notification service provided by OnSolve, based in Ormond Beach, Florida. Public safety officials across the United States have credited CodeRED notifications for saving lives, including locating missing children, apprehending wanted criminals, and issuing timely evacuations. Click here to add this to your phone now.
Stay Informed and Monitor Weather Forecasts
Closely monitor weather forecasts for the latest updates and warnings. Grice Connect or wherever you get ocal news outlets and the National Weather Service website are excellent resources for staying informed. By planning and taking precautions now, residents can stay safe during this period of dangerously cold temperatures.
Click here for updated weather information throughout the day.
Residents should remain vigilant as weather forecasts evolve in the coming days. For more updates, follow Grice Connect for the latest local developments and resources.
