01/25/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/25/2026 06:44
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE CURRENT UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON THE WINTER WEATHER EVENT
Dripping Faucets Could Save Your Plumbing
7:30 a.m. | Jan. 24, 2026
As temperatures drop, it's important to prevent your pipes from freezing. Here are some ways to protect your plumbing:
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off water to irrigation systems and outdoor faucets
- Keep faucets dripping: a small trickle of water can help prevent freezing
- Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around kitchen and bathroom pipes
- Insulate pipes or faucets in unheated areas like attics or basements
- Know where your water shut-off value is in your home in case a pipe breaks. Learn how to do this on the Water & Sewer Educational Information page: https://ow.ly/Juxh50UCe1B
A little prep now can help prevent potential costly damage later!
Just how impactful is half an inch of ice?
7:15 p.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
The National Weather Service is forecasting up to 1 inch of ice accumulation for our area through the weekend and into next week.
Forsyth County Government Offices to Close Saturday Afternoon
3:45 p.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
Due to forecasted severe winter weather conditions, non-essential Forsyth County government offices and services will close on Saturday, Jan. 24, beginning at 2 p.m. This includes:
Latest From National Weather Service: Ice Storm Warning Expands into Metro Atlanta
2:30 p.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
Forsyth County officials and partners attended a weather briefing this afternoon, coordinating and preparing to keep YOU safe this weekend! See the latest weather update from the National Weather Service, as of Friday at 2 p.m.
A Message from Forsyth County Officials: "Now is the Time to Prepare"
11:30 a.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
A few reminders from Forsyth County Manager David McKee, EMA Director Tom Cisco, Sheriff Ron Freeman and Fire Chief Barry Head ahead of Winter Storm Fern:
Are You Ready for the Ice Storm?
10 a.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
The time to prepare for potential storm impacts is NOW! Review these cold-weather tips below from the National Weather Service and check in on those who may need extra support during low temperatures.
Do you and your family have a winter weather and emergency plan? If not, take a few minutes to review your supplies and make a plan so you're ready when temperatures drop. Visit Forsyth County EMA's website for a list of recommended items.
Forsyth County EMA, First Responders and Departments Prepare for Weather Event
9:30 a.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
Forsyth County EMA met with first responders and County and community partners at the Public Safety Complex following a briefing from the National Weather Service ahead of the potential incoming ice storm.
In addition to first responder readiness, multiple County departments have taken proactive steps to prepare for the potential ice storm expected this weekend:
- Water & Sewer teams have begun winterizing water and sewer plants, with staff prepared to work around the clock to help ensure uninterrupted service.
- Roads & Bridges crews are ready to deploy de-icing materials if needed, with GDOT also on standby for state routes.
- Parks & Recreation has winterized facilities and has no outdoor activities scheduled during the extreme cold.
Watch this message from Forsyth County Manager David McKee regarding the County's preparations ahead of the weather event:
Ice Storm Watch Upgraded to Warning; Forsyth County in "Major Impact" Zone
9 a.m. | Jan. 23, 2026
National Weather Service: An Ice Storm Warning is now in effect for parts of northeast Georgia from Saturday afternoon through Monday morning, where ice accumulations from 0.25" to 1" are expected. Even just a fraction of an inch of ice has major impacts on roadways and makes travel dangerous!
National Weather Service Projects Ice Storm Impacts
5 p.m. | Jan. 22, 2026
The National Weather Service (NWS) has expanded the Winter Storm Watch to the metro-Atlanta region in north and central Georgia.
The potential ice storm, including freezing rain and wind gusts, is expected to begin Saturday afternoon in Forsyth County and extend through Sunday morning.
The County, which is under the Watch, has the potential to see:
NWS urges residents of affected areas to prepare now.