Georgia Power teams make final preparations for Winter Storm Fern

Georgia Power teams are making final preparations to respond to damage and power outages caused by Winter Storm Fern, which is bringing the potential for significant snow and ice this weekend followed by winds and subfreezing temperatures. More than 10,000 personnel including Georgia Power, contracting companies and partner utilities in Florida and other states, are engaged and ready to support the company's response effort.

The current forecast predicts freezing rain and subfreezing temperatures, which have the potential to cause power outages. Ice adds weight to tree branches, increasing the chances they will snap and fall onto power lines. Small amounts of ice can cause damage, and damage and risk for power outages increase based on the amount of ice accumulation. Wind also increases the possibility for trees and limbs to fall into power lines.

Georgia Power has been monitoring the forecast for nearly a week, as paths and predictions for the storm have changed. In the final hours before the storm enters Georgia, the company will continue to relocate crews near areas where damage is expected to allow for flexibility and a safe, efficient response. Once conditions are safe to do, these crews will begin assessing damages, assigning resources, clearing vegetation, and making repairs. Crews are prepared to work around the clock to restore power for customers safely and as quickly as possible.

The company continues to encourage customers to be prepared to be without power should Winter Storm Fern cause extensive damage or make conditions difficult for power restoration – impassable or icy roads prolong outages following an ice storm. The company also reminds customers to follow the advice of emergency management officials, prioritize safety, and stay informed.

The following tools are available from Georgia Power to help customers stay connected and informed:

• Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.

• Outage & Storm Center – Available at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.

• Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.

• Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.

• @GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X  for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Important safety tips to keep in mind during the storm include:

• Take time now to develop a plan for your family, and connect with friends and family who may need additional support during a storm if they lose power. Build or update your emergency kit with essential supplies. Learn more here.

• Take care if using a portable generator. Follow all manufacturers’ instructions, avoid using generators in enclosed spaces and be mindful of electrical safety.  Click here  for more safety tips.

• Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state as the storm moves through. If you must be on the roads, be cognizant of ice and other hazardous conditions and please move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it's the law in Georgia.

• Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire. Warn those going out to play in snow or clear debris to watch for and avoid downed wires.

• Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with heavy snow, debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be concealed. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.

Disconnections Suspended Through Jan. 29

In advance of Winter Storm Fern, Georgia Power is suspending disconnections for non-payment for all commercial and residential customers. The suspension will begin on Friday, Jan. 23, with normal operations planned to resume on Thursday, Jan. 29.

Georgia Power works every day to help customers save money and energy, and keep energy rates low for customers. Extended subfreezing temperatures can lead to increased energy use and the company encourages customers to consider taking steps today to minimize the impact of severe cold weather on their bills. Simple tips that can have a big impact on energy use are available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Save.