Gilmer prepares for winter storm
News January 15, 2022
GILMER COUNTY, Ga. – Citizens and authorities are preparing for a potential winter storm beginning tonight. The most recent statement from the National Weather Service (NWS) is expecting the storm later tonight around 10 p.m.
As the threat has lingered all week, several changes have come including a move to virtual learning for Gilmer Schools next week. But other preparations have roads being monitored and official statements strongly discouraging travel. The National Weather Service stated, ” If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Slow down and drive with caution.”
Both Gilmer Sheriff’s Office and Gilmer Public Safety have put warnings and updates for the storm on social media as well. Public Safety confirmed that the civic center warming center will be open Sunday night and Monday night for those in need. Both days will have the center open at 5:30 p.m. and close at 7:00 a.m. Visitors are asked to bring a bedroll if possible.
NWS has reported a possibility of 4 inches of accumulation. Up to 8 inches could be possible at higher elevations. In addition to the storm, NWS has also issued a wind advisory over the same time period with east winds up to 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 50 mph expected. If the wind near your residence reaches the higher levels of this, the NWS is suggesting that citizens take shelter in the lower levels of your home and windows.
They also noted that power outages and tree damage are likely due to the strong winds, heavy snow and ice. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Ice buildup is another projected issue that could reach up to half an inch in some areas. Authorities are strongly encouraging citizens to avoid prolonged time outdoors throughout the next two days due to both the freezing temperatures and the possibility of falling trees and other objects due to the snow and ice buildup in the high winds.
No roads have been closed at this time, but the Gilmer Sheriff’s Office has put out notices of reports of some black ice patches on back roads around the county in recent mornings with more possible due to the storm. With wind chill, temperatures in the county could reach single digits in the coming days.
Both the county’s schools and the county courthouse were already to be closed on Monday with the holiday.
Gilmer prepares for inclement weather with closings
News January 7, 2021
ELLIJAY, Ga. – Warnings of winter weather and notifications from the National Weather Service have forced closings and delays in Gilmer County tonight.
According to the National Weather Service, “total snow accumulations of two to four inches with isolated higher and ice accumulations of a light glaze to one-tenth of an inch possible.”
In effect until 7 p.m. Friday, elevations above 1500 feet will see worse conditions.
The conditions are already seeing posts and statements of closures. The Gilmer Sheriff’s Office reported, “Due to the inclement weather that is expected overnight, the Courthouse and all County Offices for non-essential employees will be delayed until 10:00am Friday morning, January 8, 2021.”
In addition to the courthouse, Gilmer Schools has also closed their school facilities. Instead choosing to go forward with a virtual learning day. They posted saying, “Because the safety of Gilmer County students and staff is our highest priority, Gilmer County Schools will plan to hold a virtual learning day tomorrow Friday January 8, 2021.”
Gilmer Health Department is also closing due to the weather, “Due to anticipated winter weather conditions that could result in hazardous road conditions, the Fannin County and Gilmer County Health Departments will be CLOSED tomorrow, Friday, January 8. Any further updates regarding weather impacts on public health services in North Georgia will be provided by the North Georgia Health District.”
Waiting for the storm to hit, these closures come with just the warning of winter weather as officials are attempting to provide for safety and security of citizens.
Gilmer cancels school in face of forecasts
News November 30, 2020
EAST ELLIJAY, Ga. – With reports and forecasts continuing to come in for freezing temperatures and some form of precipitation, many are facing decisions on tomorrow’s plans. Gilmer Schools has made their decision in preparation of the possibility of ice on the roads.
In a statement tonight, November 30, 2020, Gilmer Schools said, “We are monitoring weather forecasts and road conditions closely. At this time weather sources are posting conflicting forecasts for overnight and into tomorrow morning; however, all forecasts indicate precipitation with temperatures below freezing. Because many of our roads are at higher elevations, travel may become treacherous especially for buses. Because the safety of Gilmer County students and staff is our highest priority, Gilmer County Schools will be closed for students tomorrow December 1, 2020.”
While still having staff report to work if safe to do so, they are also allowing for those who do not wish to risk the roads, telling them to contact supervisors.