Posted: Jan 06 2017 09:32AM EST
Updated: Jan 06 2017 10:49AM EST
ATLANTA — The city of Atlanta is preparing for wintry weather this weekend.
«We take advanced storm planning very seriously,» Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said at a news briefing Friday morning.
Mayor Reed, along with other city officials, talked about the city’s preparations and offered recommendations to ensure the safety of Atlanta’s residents.
APP USERS: Watch Mayor Reed’s news conference
«We have 100 pieces of equipment that are ready to move into action once the city has been cleared,» Reed said. «It is critical that we maintain the safety of our roadways. »
The 100 pieces of equipment include 40 snow plows.
Two thousand tons of salt and 10,000 gallons of salt brine will be dispersed.
«We expect road conditions to turn hazardous this evening and remain that way through Sunday,» Reed said. «Once the snow starts falling, the Department of Public Works will ensure priority roads are passable. »
In order to ensure the city remains safe, Mayor Reed is asking for everyone to participate in staggered departures. City of Atlanta schools will begin releasing students at 11:30 a.m., which is also the time parents are being asked to pick up their children. Private sector employees within the city are being asked to leave work at 12:30 p.m. Non-essential employees should be home by 4 p.m.
Click here for a complete list of weather closings
Chief E. Shields, «We are prepared. The joint operations center will be open starting today at 4pm. » #winter2017 pic.twitter.com/sD7Mm4HF41
At the news conference, Reed urged residents to secure adequate food and fuel, recommending residents have three days worth of food as well as water.
«It’s critical to stay well informed and help keep tabs on our children, sick and the elderly. »
Winter weather coverage: Depend on the FOX 5 Storm Team
Mayor Reed said he will be tweeting and sharing updates on Facebook throughout the day to help keep residents informed. He also suggested anyone who lives in the region utilize the city’s emergency notification system » Notify ATL. »
«This is a very serious weather event,» Mayor Reed said. «This is a very significant storm. «
