Gov. Kemp declares state of emergency; GEMA director advises stocking up on essentials

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Gov. Brian Kemp declared a State of Emergency in Georgia during a press call on January 22, 2026, ahead of the winter storm projected to affect the state.

Credit: Screenshot

Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency ahead of a winter storm's arrival in Georgia.

In his emergency order, Kemp suspended truck weight limits to allow emergency response services to move fuel and supplies around the state, and authorized the call of 500 National Guard troops.

“Now, obviously we do not have a need for those folks right now," Kemp said in a press call Thursday. "Hopefully we won't. But we just wanna be prepared in case we do that we can move and get Gen. Wilson and his team responding as quick as possible."

Guard members could help with clearing roadways and moving equipment if called. 

Kemps said trucks will start brining roads late Friday and local and state emergency management services will monitor the storm 24/7.

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GEMA director Josh Lamb, during a press call on January 22, 2026, alongside Gov. Brian Kemp, discussed the winter storm projected to affect the state.

Credit: Screenshot

In the same press call, GEMA director Josh Lamb said it’s time for residents to stock up on food, gas, and other essentials before the storm brings ice and snow to the northern part of the state.

“By being ready for the storm, Georgians can do their part in minimizing risk, reducing the time it takes to recover, and most importantly, prevent the loss of life," he said. "The main actions to take now are to prepare your family. Prepare your home and prepare your car.”

Lamb also said people should not use the oven to warm up your house or bring a generator indoors because of carbon monoxide poisoning risk.

Officials are also telling drivers to stay off the roads if they are icy. If you must drive, they say to use extra caution.