The city of Decatur is gearing up to respond to winter weather and a new advisory is in effect.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the area until 6 p.m., Jan. 22. Wind gusts from 15 to 25 miles per hour to as high as 35 miles per hour are expected. “Shallow-rooted trees may be downed more easily due to the very saturated soils,” the National Weather Service warns. “Driving may become difficult, especially in higher terrain. Loose objects may also be blown around if not secured.”

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There’s a winter weather advisory in effect from 3 p.m. Jan. 22 until 7 p.m. Jan. 23, and a flood watch until 7 a.m. Jan. 23.

Local school systems have made plans to dismiss early today. For the details on school dismissals, click here.

The city of Decatur has published its plan for dealing with the winter weather on the city’s Decatur Minute Blog:

In the event of snow and/or Ice …

• The city will concentrate on providing a usable travel lane in each direction on major streets and clearing sidewalks near MARTA stations.

• The city will work with City Schools of Decatur to make sure entrances, exits, and driveways at the schools are clear.

• Residents should expect to clear their driveways and sidewalks. It is unlikely that the city will be able to clear interior neighborhood residential streets.

• If you, or a neighbor, are a senior, someone with a medical need or someone with special needs, consider creating a safety profile at smart911.com. You can also contact Lifelong Community Coordinator Lee Ann Harvey, 770-652-8593, to be placed on the home checklist maintained by the Police Department.

DeKalb County has announced it is closing its administrative offices at noon today:

DECATUR, Ga. –With inclement weather expected, DeKalb County Administrative offices will be closing today at noon.  DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is anticipating snow late afternoon into early evening. A Flood watch is in place for tomorrowmorning into the afternoon with high winds expected.

According to Atlanta INtown, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed says the city is ready for the storm and is encouraging businesses to release employees by 2 p.m. For more information, click here.

Decaturish.com will provide weather updates today and throughout the weekend. Keep checking back for updates. If you have any updates to report or photos to submit, send them to [email protected]. Be safe. Stay warm.

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