Winter Storm Diego dumped around two inches of snow and ice on Habersham County over the weekend. (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)
The Winter Storm Warning for northeast Georgia has been lifted, but the effects of the storm are still being felt. Temperatures overnight are expected to dip below freezing increasing the threat of icy road conditions on Tuesday.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for much of north Georgia due to the threat of black ice. Out of an abundance of caution, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal has delayed state offices opening until 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11.
RELATED State government delays opening Tuesday
Storm’s local impact
Winter Storm Diego moved into Georgia on Saturday, Dec. 8, dumping snow and ice on the northern part of the state. Habersham County got around two inches of snow while more than a half foot of snow fell in the mountains. Sky Valley reported 7.5 inches of snow.
The storm system knocked out power to thousands of homes and businesses in north Georgia. Most of the outages were caused by fallen trees. In Mt. Airy, a tree fell on a section of line crossing the railroad tracks. A train caught the line Sunday night, knocking out power to some Habersham EMC customers.
Fallen trees did more than just damage power lines.
A White County Sheriff’s Deputy was injured over the weekend when a tree fell on his vehicle. He was transported to the hospital for treatment and released, according to WRWH.
Some area roads were blocked by trees that fell under the weight of the snow and ice.
Many area churches canceled Sunday services. Several school systems closed Monday due to power outages and the threat of icy roads.
Despite the hazards, some people got out to enjoy the snow. Kids and adults were seen building snowmen and sledding, making the most of the snow while it lasted.
Updated 12/10/18@3:45pm
