Metro Atlanta Braces for Impending Ice Storm

Metro Atlanta is preparing for an impending ice storm, with forecasts predicting up to an inch of ice accumulation within 24 hours.

An Ice Storm Warning has been expanded for the region, indicating potential widespread power outages and hazardous conditions.

Key Preparations

Water Supply

• Emergency Flushing: Fill a bathtub with water for manual toilet flushing in case of water service interruption.
• Pipe Protection: Allow faucets (hot and cold) to drip slowly when temperatures drop below freezing to prevent pipes from bursting.
• Cabinet Access: Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow residual household heat to reach pipes.

Food Preservation

• Deep Freeze: Set refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings to create a cold buffer.
• Ice Blocks: Freeze containers of water to transfer to the refrigerator if power fails, acting as an icebox.
• Thawing Indicator: Place a coin on top of a frozen cup of water in the freezer; if the coin is at the bottom upon return, food likely thawed and refroze, indicating it may be unsafe.

Meal Preparation

• Pre-cook: Hard-boil eggs and pre-cook meats (e.g., ground beef, grilled chicken) for easier consumption or reheating without electricity.
• Hot Liquids: Fill a quality thermos with boiling water before the storm for hot beverages or oatmeal.

Home Heating

• Designated Warm Room: Choose a small room with few windows to concentrate heat.
• Insulation: Use an indoor tent or blanket fort to contain body heat. Seal drafts under exterior doors with towels.

Lighting

• DIY Lantern: Strap a headlamp or flashlight facing inward on a gallon jug of water for diffused room lighting.
• Power Return Indicator: Leave one lamp switched