When to Start Plowing During Atlanta Winter Storms: Timing Guide
When Should You Start Plowing During Atlanta Winter Storms? A Simple Timing Guide
Winter storms in Atlanta may not be as frequent or severe as in northern states, but when they do hit, timely snow and ice removal becomes essential. Knowing when to start plowing during Atlanta winter storms can help minimize hazards, protect your property, and ensure smooth operations if you manage a commercial property or community.
In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of timing plowing operations for Atlanta’s unique winter weather conditions and provide actionable tips to keep your property safe and accessible.
Understanding Atlanta Winter Storms
Unlike regions with consistent heavy snowfall, Atlanta experiences winter storms sporadically. Storms often bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, which complicates cleanup efforts.
Key Characteristics of Atlanta Winter Storms:
- Unpredictable timing: Storms often come with little advanced warning.
- Mixed precipitation: Snow, freezing rain, and ice can occur within the same event.
- Rapid temperature changes: Conditions can oscillate around freezing, changing snow to ice quickly.
Because of this variability, the timing of plowing operations requires flexibility and awareness of storm progression.
Why Timing Matters for Plowing
Starting plowing operations too early or too late can reduce effectiveness and increase costs:
- Plowing too early: May lead to multiple passes over accumulating snow, causing inefficient cleanup and potential surface damage.
- Plowing too late: Could allow ice to bond tightly to pavement, making removal harder and increasing slip hazards.
Effective timing optimizes safety and minimizes property damage while reducing labor and equipment wear.
When Should You Start Plowing During Atlanta Winter Storms?
Here’s a simple timing guide tailored to Atlanta’s winter storm conditions:
1. Monitor Weather Closely
Accurate, real-time weather tracking is critical. Use a reliable local weather source and keep an eye on:
- Snowfall start time predictions
- Temperature forecasts (especially freezing points)
- Precipitation type changes (snow to sleet or freezing rain)
2. Begin Pre-Treatment Early
Before snow starts, apply salt brine or other de-icing agents if possible. This helps prevent ice from bonding to pavement, making plowing more effective.
3. Start Plowing Once Snow Accumulates to 1-2 Inches
Wait until snow has accumulated about 1 to 2 inches before initiating plowing. At this point:
- It’s deep enough to need removal.
- Too early plowing can cause damage or require repeat passes.
- Timely plowing prevents snow from compacting or turning icy.
4. React Swiftly to Freezing Rain or Ice
If freezing rain is expected, delay plowing until ice stops accumulating. Plowing during an icestorm can be dangerous and often ineffective. Instead:
- Apply de-icing treatment aggressively.
- Begin plowing after the ice has stopped falling and after salt has had time to work.
5. Follow Up as Needed During Storm Progression
For prolonged storms, multiple passes might be necessary. Monitor road and walkway conditions carefully and plow again if:
- Snow accumulation exceeds 3 inches.
- Ice begins to re-form.
- Snow becomes compacted or slippery due to traffic.
Additional Tips for Effective Plowing in Atlanta
Prioritize High-Traffic and Vulnerable Areas
Start plowing on:
- Main roads and driveways
- Parking lots and walkways
- Entrances and exits
- Emergency access routes
Invest in Proper Equipment
Small trucks with plow attachments and salt spreaders are typically sufficient in Atlanta. Ensure equipment is well-maintained for quick response.
Communicate with Property Users
Notify tenants, employees, or residents about plowing schedules and safety tips before and during storms.
Summary: Simplify Your Plowing Timing Strategy
- Monitor weather and precipitation types closely.
- Pre-treat surfaces before snow begins.
- Start plowing once snow reaches 1-2 inches (unless freezing rain is falling).
- Avoid plowing ice accumulation during freezing rain.
- Repeat plowing as necessary during long storms.
By following this timing guide, you can reduce risks, protect property, and maintain safe access throughout Atlanta’s winter weather events.
Stay prepared this winter to keep your property clear and safe when storms strike!
