01/24/2026
Weather Briefing #4 (sorry, no video today as we have transitioned our communication protocol to EOC activation). The National Weather Service conducted another briefing this afternoon, and the threats of ice and wind gusts still remain. The Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center activated at 1 p.m. today and will remain activated until the event concludes.
An Ice Storm Warning is in effect for Cherokee County, which could bring anywhere from 0.25 inch to 1 inch of ice. Ice weighs down trees and powerlines and could cause extended power outages. Forecasted wind gusts are 20-40 mph, which cause additional impacts.
Additionally, public safety and law enforcement personnel will also have to navigate icy roads to respond to emergencies, which could extend response times.
A Cold Weather Advisory has also been issued as temperatures are expected to plummet into the teens.
‼️Please be home before sundown or wherever you plan to stay at least through Monday. Please stay off the roads until the weather event is complete.‼️
Cherokee County Public Works will pre-treat roads after rain has moved through. Crews and equipment, including eight trucks with granular material and several plow attachments, are staged and ready. Bridges and main roads are prioritized. The Georgia Department of Transportation began pre-treating state highways this morning. GDOT is responsible for maintenance of all state highways (Ga. 20, Ga. 140, Ga. 92, Ga. 372, Ga. 108, and Ga. 369, as well as Interstate 575 and Interstate 75).
Check out the pinned post about Power Company contact information and take note of the information for your power company just in case you need to call them.
Residents who have not signed up for Rave Alert are encouraged to do so. https://www.smart911.com/smart911/login.action?lpse=1
The Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County will be opening a warming station Monday. See specific details on their post. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1K5HpZ8UQ2/
A few safety tips:
→ Generators: Do not refill your generator while it is turned on. Keep generators outdoors only. Keep at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. Never use in a garage (even with the door open). Point the exhaust away from buildings. They should be used in coordination with a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless and colorless gas.
→ Driving: Please don't do it. Ice and tires, even with chains and 4-wheel drive, don't mix. Keep yourself and others safe.
→ Alternate Heat Sources: Refer to manufacturer instructions. Keep at least 3 feet away from any materials.
Check on each other! We are a community, and it's important we take care of each other. Check in on family, friends and neighbors.
If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Stay Safe, Cherokee!