Atlanta's rare snowfall transforms the city into a winter wonderland
Atlanta saw a rare snowfall on Saturday, blanketing parts of the city in waves of heavy and light flurries. Residents made the most of the wintry weather, while city crews worked to keep roads safe and passable.
The Atlanta Department of Transportation (DOT) took early action before the snow arrived. Crews pre-treated streets with rock salt, paying special attention to intersections in Grant Park and inclined roads to stop ice from forming. Officials also readied up to 30 snowplows, ready to clear routes once accumulation began.
Despite the cold and blustery conditions, people still headed outside. In Grant Park, some walked their dogs, while others played football in the snow. Local businesses also adapted to the weather. Tanya Smith, owner of Ollie's Market and Deli, stocked up on warm food and drinks, offering hot chocolate, soups, and Panini to customers seeking shelter from the chill.
Snowfall of this kind is unusual for Atlanta. Climate records from 1940 to 2020 show the city averages just one or two measurable snowfalls per winter, with around 0.8 days of at least 1 cm (0.4 inches) each year.
The snow brought a brief but noticeable change to daily life in Atlanta. City efforts to salt roads and clear key areas aimed to minimise disruptions. Meanwhile, residents embraced the wintry conditions, making the most of a rare weather event.
