Published: January 06, 2010 07:28 pm      

Snow expected Thursday, some schools to close early

It might not be a winter wonderland yet, but by Thursday evening there could be up to three inches of snow in some areas of north Georgia, a forecaster said on Wednesday.

Most areas in Whitfield and Murray counties are expected to receive about an inch to two inches of snow Thursday afternoon, said Jessica Fieux, a forecaster with the National Weather Service in Peachtree City.

Flurries are expected to begin Thursday morning, and snow showers are expected to move in Thursday afternoon. Highs are expected to be in the mid-30s, and lows Thursday night are expected to be near 20, Fieux said.

Since highs are going to be a little above freezing, the snow may turn into slush during the day, which could refreeze overnight Thursday, she said. Motorists should watch for patches of ice on the roadways, especially on bridges and overpasses, Friday morning, Fieux said.

Jeffrey Putnam, Whitfield County Emergency Services director, advised area residents to stay home unless they absolutely have to be out in the snow. He’s also concerned that the snow may melt and refreeze into ice, causing slick roads. Be careful on the roads and take your time driving, he added.

“They don’t expect any power line or tree damage from this,” Putnam said. “It’s all going to be a snow event. It won’t accumulate enough on the trees and power lines to weigh them down.”

Putnam said if you venture into the cold, snowy weather, be prepared. Dress warmly, keep your head covered and wear gloves.

There is another chance for some light snow showers on Friday, Fieux said.

Highs on Friday and Saturday are expected to reach the mid-30s. Sunday’s high is expected to be in the upper 30s. The cold snap is expected to leave the area Monday when the high is expected to be near 50 again, Fieux said.



School information

Whitfield County Schools students and staff will report to school as usual Thursday, school officials said late Wednesday afternoon, but schools will close early in anticipation of inclement weather. Elementary schools will begin dismissing at 11 a.m. followed by middle and high schools at noon. Bus drivers will run their usual routes and students will get a sack lunch. School system officials will monitor road conditions and let the public know as soon as possible about plans for Friday.

Dalton Public Schools officials announced no changes as of Wednesday evening.

Murray County Schools will close three-and-a-half hours early Thursday, between 11:30 a.m. and noon depending on what time the school would normally let out. Lunch will be served.

The North Georgia Health District office and the Whitfield County Health Department will close Thursday at 11 a.m. The Murray County Health Department will close at 11:30 a.m. The Whitfield County Board of Health meeting scheduled for Thursday is canceled.