The recent winter storm has left parts of metro Atlanta in disarray, with sub-freezing temperatures turning an inch of snow into a treacherous layer of ice. This transformation has rendered many roads impassable, leading to hundreds of abandoned vehicles across major highways and side streets. DeKalb County has declared a state of emergency, urging residents to stay indoors due to hazardous road conditions. Meanwhile, Henry County faced significant challenges on Rock Quarry Road, where numerous vehicles were stuck, and some drivers were forced to spend the night in their cars. Emergency services have been overwhelmed with calls from stranded motorists, while transportation departments worked tirelessly to clear the roads.

Emergency Response and Public Warnings

Local authorities have taken swift action to address the crisis, issuing warnings and providing guidance to ensure public safety. DeKalb County, for instance, has advised residents to remain at home and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. The county’s emergency management director emphasized the importance of staying off side roads, which are particularly dangerous. Similarly, Henry County saw emergency crews responding to hundreds of calls related to icy conditions, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Henry County Director of Emergency Management Ryan Morrison stressed that side roads posed the greatest risk. Crews were dispatched to address these issues promptly. Sheila Horne, who was unable to get home from work on Tuesday night, had no choice but to sleep in her car. On Wednesday morning, she opted to walk to work, abandoning her vehicle on the side of the road. "My car wouldn’t move; my wheels kept spinning," she explained. Authorities have urged people to call for assistance if they find themselves in similar situations and to notify local law enforcement if vehicles are left unattended.

Road Conditions and Driver Experiences

Across metro Atlanta, the impact of the winter storm has been felt acutely, with major interstates and side streets becoming nearly impossible to navigate. In Gwinnett County, police received over 1,000 weather-related calls and more than 450 reports of car accidents within a span of just six hours. Photos shared by the Gwinnett Police Department revealed numerous abandoned vehicles choking icy roads. Amin Guzman, another stranded driver, described his experience as one of constant sliding, with many others facing similar struggles.

In Monroe County, traffic on I-75 came to a standstill after a tractor-trailer caught fire, blocking all lanes. Drivers were forced to abandon or sleep in their vehicles as crews struggled to reach the scene due to the winter weather. By mid-morning, a Henry County truck spread sand on a problematic hill, allowing traffic to resume safely. Despite these efforts, many areas remained challenging, and drivers were reminded to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel. Local police departments have clarified that they do not provide free towing services during such events, advising residents to make arrangements with private companies if needed.