Winter Storm Watch Continues for Banks County as Ice, Power Outages Threaten Travel
January 22, 2026 —Banks County Emergency Services, in coordination with Banks County Government and Banks County EMA & E-911, is advising residents that a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Friday night through Monday morning, following an alert issued by GEMA/HS and the National Weather Service office in Peachtree City. The watch, issued at 1:48 a.m. Thursday, warns of heavy mixed precipitation, with ice accumulations between 0.25 and 0.75 inches possible, along with snow or sleet amounts up to one inch across portions of north central, northeast, and northwest Georgia. Officials caution that ice buildup could lead to widespread power outages, downed trees, and extremely hazardous travel conditions, potentially making roads impassable and significantly impacting the Monday morning commute. Emergency management officials urge residents to closely monitor forecast updates and strongly consider delaying all travel. Those who must travel are advised to exercise extreme caution and carry a winter storm kit, including emergency supplies such as blankets, water, a flashlight, first aid materials, and extra clothing, in case they become stranded during the storm.