Augusta Fire/EMA says they are working closely with county departments and preparing for the weather forecast to impact North and Central Georgia from 7 a.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Satu

Augusta area and state officials are gearing up for severe winter weather expected to hit Georgia on Friday. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp declared a statewide state of emergency on Thursday through Tuesday in preparation for the approaching winter storm.

Snow and ice is expected in north Georgia and metro Atlanta by Friday morning with a quick change over to rain and freezing rain for much of the day. Many schools and government offices have already closed ahead of the storm.

The State of Emergency order prohibits price gouging; suspends hours-of-service limitations for commercial vehicle operators involved in response activities; and temporarily increases weight, height,