Douglas County Declares ‘State of Emergency’ Ahead of Ice Storm
Emergency Crews Prepare for Ice, Freezing Rain, and Strong Winds
(Douglasville, GA)- Douglas County Government has declared a ‘State of Emergency’ in advance the impending ice storm and its potential impact on our area. Board of Commission Chairman Dr. Romona Jackson Jones signed the emergency declaration Friday, January 23, 2026, following the recommendation of Douglas County’s Emergency Management and Public Safety leadership.
Douglas County joins several other metro counties in declaring a local ‘State of Emergency’ following Governor Brian Kemp’s Statewide Emergency Declaration on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The local declaration provides governments greater access to state and federal resources amid an emergency. It also outlines prohibitions on price gouging for critical and necessary goods and services, along with detailing closed and restricted areas.
“Based on the latest National Weather Service briefing, Douglas County is expecting one-tenth to one-quarter inch of ice. It was necessary for us to take this proactive measure to safeguard life and property,” said Douglas County Emergency Management Director James Queen. “We are anticipating downed trees and power lines due to the weight of the ice. Our team is monitoring the situation around the clock and will provide necessary updates so residents can make informed decisions.”
“Our primary concern is the safety of our residents as this ice storm approaches,” said Chairman Jones. “We strongly urge everyone to heed public safety warnings, limit travel, take the appropriate precautions, and remain weather aware as hazardous conditions develop.”
Douglas County’s Emergency Operations Center will operate on a 24/7 basis beginning at noon on Saturday, January 24, 2026, as emergency management and public safety leadership monitor the ongoing weather situation.