Tennessee and Georgia declare state of emergencies

From Local 3 News: Southern states, including Tennessee and Georgia, are preparing for the upcoming strong winter storm this weekend. Both states have declared a state of emergency to help with emergency response.

"As forecasts continue to evolve, Georgians should be prepared for freezing precipitation that causes dangerous conditions and the potential for damage and power loss beginning Saturday," said Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia.

"Today, [Thursday], I issued a state of emergency for all 95 counties ahead of this weekend’s major storm. We encourage all Tennesseans to check local weather conditions & follow key updates from state agencies," said Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee.

Emergency crews in Tennessee, including the Tennessee Department of Transportation, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Tennessee's Emergency Management Agency, and the National Weather Service, are echoing one important message ahead of the crippling winter storm: Stay home and do not travel.

"Unless you have to travel, stay off the road. Essential travel obviously is allowed, you need to do it if it is life safety, but staying off the road helps you stay safe," said Alex Pellom, Chief of Staff for TEMA.

Tennessee's Department of Transportation is preparing interstates and roadways now.

"They are already putting the brine down that you probably have seen. That is the treatment that is used before the snow gets here. Then after the snow comes, they will be putting down the salt," said Josh Brown, Traffic Operations Director with the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

Officials ask if you have to travel, think ahead. Make sure your gas tank is full going into this weekend, and make sure you have an emergency kit in your car in case you get stranded for several hours.

"If you are having to let your vehicle run for warmth, please be mindful of carbon monoxide and make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of any debris," said Major Travis Plotzer with Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Also, give road and emergency crews plenty of room this weekend.

"Move over for first responders. If you see them on the shoulder, slow down and move over. Our troopers and first responders are most vulnerable when they are outside of their vehicles working. This move-over law even applies to TDOT trucks, TDOT workers, and tow truck workers," said Plotzer.

Officials also urge Tennesseans to remember the state's volunteer spirit during this intense weekend storm.

"Check on your neighbors. Some people may live alone. Some people may not have the support system around them. We ask that you look for those that may be elderly. They may live alone and check in on them," said Alex Pellom, Chief of Staff for TEMA.