Schools Remain Open Despite Snow in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area

Aside those located in the mountains of northeast Georgia, few schools closed after the Atlanta Metropolitan Area experienced its first snowfall of the winter on Wednesday, January 16. Although an overcast sky during the morning and early afternoon gave hints of what was to come later that day, most local schools remained open and continued with their normal hours of operation. The snow arrived just in time for rush hour, as commuters scurried home to tune in to the news for updates on school closings that might take place the following morning.

Administrative offices in Georgia's colleges and universities were flooded with calls Wednesday evening as students inquired about evening classes. "Yes, classes are being held," one counselor at a local college informed a student over the telephone. "Yes, we realize it's snowing," he chuckled, knowing that a string of similar calls would follow.

Many students were hopeful that they would be able to enjoy a "snow day" at home the next day, either building snowmen, engaging in snowball fights or simply enjoying a break from the rigors of academic study. By sunrise on Thursday, however, rain had washed away most visible traces of the weather that had garnered extensive news coverage the night before. Life returned to normal for most people living in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area, and it was back to school for the vast majority of students.

Unlike some states, where winter snow is commonplace, Georgia has gone many winters without snow. Less than two weeks ago, many Georgians were able to dress comfortably in little more than a sweater or light jacket, as spring-like temperatures uncharacteristic of the northern and Midwestern states this time of the year drew many to the outdoors. Though the chill of winter has set in, the snow left most areas of the state just as quickly as it came.

According the Associated Press, the snowfall came after moisture from the Gulf of Mexico combined with cold from the northeast and made its way to the Atlanta Metropolitan Area. In some areas of Georgia, as many as 3 inches of snow were reported. Overall, however, there was little more than a light dusting that proved to be more of an aesthetic treat than a safety hazard. Once the snow turned to rain, however, the vision of Winter Wonderland quickly faded. It was a disappointment for some, and a relief for others.

The Georgia Department of Education has reported that "State School Education Directors have discretion to close or adjust work hours of schools due to inclement weather conditions or public emergency situations." When this occurs, WSB-TV, Channel 2 serves as the official television news station to notify the local residents of school closings in their area. This time around, their Severe Weather Report was cut short as snow melted and the rain subsided.

As snow is a rarity in the state, many Georgians saw fit to take photos of the snow, which can be viewed at AJC.COM.

Sources:

Bernard McGhee, "Winter Mix Hits Georgia; Cold in N.M." Associated Press.

Georgia Department of Education, "GaDOE Inclement Weather and Public Emergency Policy." (http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/pea_communications.aspx?ViewMode=1&obj=1041)

The Atlanta Journal Constitution.