Habersham County Schools will remain closed for students on Friday, January 30, 2026, due to continued hazardous road conditions across the county, Superintendent Patrick Franklin announced.
According to Franklin, 25 to 30 roads remain unsafe for travel because of icy sections, trees hanging over roadways, and low-hanging power lines. School officials determined that conditions are not safe for school buses or student drivers.
“Our transportation department does not feel safe placing school buses and student drivers on our roadways,” Franklin said in the announcement to parents.
Staff Reporting Information
School staff are expected to report to work at 8:30 a.m., or later when it is safe to do so. Teachers and staff will use the day to focus on lesson planning and preparation ahead of another storm system forecasted for Saturday.
Student Materials Pickup
Parents will have an opportunity to pick up instructional materials, including lessons and library books, on Friday. Schools will communicate specific pickup details directly with families.
County and school officials continue to monitor road conditions and work closely with local agencies to address remaining hazards.
Habersham News will continue to provide updates as conditions change and further decisions are made regarding school operations.
A newly introduced proposal at the Georgia State Capitol could dramatically reshape how property taxes are collected across the state, including in Habersham and Rabun counties.
Georgia House District 10 Representative Victor Anderson recently spoke with Habersham News about legislation introduced this week that would, over time, eliminate most property taxes on homestead properties—the primary residences of Georgia homeowners.
Anderson emphasized that the proposal is separate from House Bill 581, which dealt with a floating homestead exemption tied to inflation. The new effort includes two pieces of legislation: a resolution calling for a constitutional amendment and a separate enabling bill that would take effect if voters approve the amendment.
What the Proposal Would Do
If approved in its current form, the legislation would phase in changes over several years, ultimately reducing the traditional property tax portion applied to homestead properties to zero by 2032. The exemption would apply to a homeowner’s primary residence and up to five acres of land.
Rather than eliminating all local charges, Anderson explained that counties, cities, or school systems could still impose specific line-item fees for designated services, such as existing bond obligations. In Habersham County, for example, hospital-related debt currently appears as a separate charge on property tax bills and could continue under this framework.
The core property tax calculation—based on assessed value multiplied by the millage rate—would be the portion gradually phased out.
How Local Governments Would Replace Revenue
To offset the loss of homestead property tax revenue, the proposal would allow for expanded use of local sales taxes, pending voter approval. Anderson described the shift as moving from a property-based tax to a consumption-based system, meaning visitors and non-residents who shop locally would help fund services.
He noted that the impact would vary significantly by community, depending on existing tax structures, debt obligations, and retail activity. Anderson said he plans to meet with leaders from Habersham and Rabun counties to better understand how the proposal could affect the region.
Commercial properties, rental properties, and non-homestead parcels would continue to be taxed under current rules, including periodic reassessments.
Impact on Homeowners and Renters
Under the proposal, homeowners would still pay property tax on a homestead during the first year after purchasing a home. After that initial year, the homestead exemption would apply fully once the phase-in is complete.
Renters would not directly benefit from the homestead exemption and could see higher costs through increased sales taxes. Anderson acknowledged that while renters would not receive property tax relief, the broader goal is to reduce the burden on homeowners while spreading costs across consumption.
Where the Legislation Stands Now
The proposal has not yet passed the House and is still in the early stages of the legislative process. The constitutional amendment resolution has been assigned to the House Ways and Means Committee, and the enabling legislation is expected to follow.
Both measures must clear committee hearings, pass the Georgia House and Senate, and—because of the constitutional amendment—ultimately be approved by Georgia voters statewide.
Anderson said the proposal has significant early interest, with more than 100 lawmakers listed as sponsors, but emphasized that support levels will be evaluated during committee discussions.
“This would be a fundamental reimagining of Georgia’s property tax system,” Anderson said, describing the proposal as transformational but still a work in progress.
Habersham News will continue to follow the legislation as it moves through the General Assembly and report on its potential local impact.
For more than eight decades, the Cornelia Coca-Cola Plant stood as a familiar and enduring presence in downtown Cornelia—an emblem of local industry, community pride, and a time when bottling plants were woven into the fabric of small-town life.
The Cornelia plant opened in 1907, just a few years after Coca-Cola itself began expanding beyond Atlanta. For generations, the facility operated as a locally owned, family-run bottling plant, producing and distributing Coca-Cola products throughout Habersham County and surrounding areas. At its peak, the plant housed both manufacturing and bottling operations, providing steady employment and serving as a hub of activity in the community.
Workers at Cornelia Coca-Cola Plant/Photo Habersham History Archives
By the mid-1980s, however, changes in the beverage industry began reshaping how and where Coca-Cola products were made. In February 1986, bottling operations at the Cornelia plant officially ceased. Coca-Cola Enterprises cited economic realities and aging equipment, noting that it had become more cost-effective to centralize production at larger facilities in Atlanta and other regional plants. While manufacturing ended, the Cornelia building continued to serve as a distribution and sales center for several more years.
The Cornelia Coca-Cola Plant/Photo Habersham History Archives
The final chapter came in 1991, when the Cornelia Coca-Cola Plant closed its doors entirely after 84 years of operation. At the time of closure, employees were reassigned to Coca-Cola facilities in Gainesville and Athens, while others chose to retire or leave the company. The consolidation reflected a broader restructuring taking place across the Coca-Cola system as territories were merged and operations streamlined.
Longtime employees remembered the plant not just as a workplace, but as a cornerstone of the community. Thomas Bates of Cornelia, who managed the downtown facility from 1964 until his retirement in 1987, expressed sadness at seeing the warehouse close, a sentiment shared by many who had personal or family ties to the plant. For decades, delivery trucks rolling out of Cornelia carried more than beverages—they carried a sense of local identity.
Today, the old Cornelia Coca-Cola Plant remains a quiet reminder of a different era in Habersham County’s history—one when small-town bottling plants played a vital role in both the local economy and daily life. Though production has long since moved elsewhere, the legacy of the plant endures in the memories of those who worked there and the community it served for nearly a century.
Power has been fully restored across Habersham County following Winter Storm Fern, bringing an end to what Habersham EMC described as one of the most challenging restoration efforts in the cooperative’s history.
At the height of the storm, more than 23,000 members were without power, an unprecedented number for the service area. Restoration efforts stretched nearly 80 hours, as crews worked around the clock in extreme conditions to repair widespread damage caused by ice, wind, and falling trees.
According to Habersham EMC, crews replaced 113 broken power poles, each repair taking an average of six hours. In addition, workers installed 54,135 feet of wire—a distance the cooperative compared to stacking two Mount Everests end to end—and cleared nearly 4,000 fallen trees from power lines.
The work was carried out amid single-digit temperatures, strong winds, icy roadways, and constant safety hazards. Crews often worked through the night, facing hidden damage and new obstacles as conditions evolved.
Behind the scenes, Habersham EMC’s operations extended beyond the field. Office staff handled a steady stream of calls and messages, coordinated housing and meals for visiting linemen, and provided frequent public updates. Some employees remained on-site for extended periods, grabbing only brief rest breaks as restoration efforts continued.
In total, 654 workers, including Habersham EMC employees, contractors, and personnel from partner electric cooperatives across the region, took part in the response. Extra crews and supplies had been staged ahead of the storm, but the scope of the damage made the effort demanding from start to finish.
Habersham EMC acknowledged the frustration and hardship outages caused for residents but expressed pride in the collective effort and gratitude for the community’s patience and support throughout the process.
With the final outage resolved, crews were finally able to return home to their families—marking the end of a storm response that will be remembered as a defining moment for the cooperative and the community it serves.
As restoration efforts continue following last week’s winter storm, utility crews across Habersham County are nearing the end of a long and exhausting process to bring power back to every home and business still without service.
Habersham EMC reported Thursday that crews made significant progress throughout the day, restoring power to hundreds of members as weather conditions improved. By evening, the number of remaining outages had dropped to the double digits, with the goal of completing full restoration by the end of the night.
The cooperative described the effort as an arduous process, with crews working extended hours in cold, hazardous conditions. Despite the fatigue, restoration teams have continued pushing forward, supported by improved weather, coordinated planning, and encouragement from the community.
Crews from Habersham EMC, along with contractors and partner cooperatives, have been working around the clock since the storm began. Their work has included clearing debris, repairing downed lines, replacing damaged poles, and restoring service in hard-to-reach areas — often under dangerous conditions.
As the final outages are addressed, Habersham EMC offered a special acknowledgment to the crews still in the field, emphasizing that work has not stopped and will not stop until every remaining member is restored safely.
Habersham News joins the community in thanking all utility workers for their dedication, professionalism, and perseverance throughout this storm response. Their efforts have played a critical role in helping Habersham County recover and move forward.
Residents are reminded to continue exercising caution around downed lines and damaged infrastructure and to report any lingering issues directly to their power provider.
Habersham County Schools will be closed for students on Thursday, January 29, 2026, due to continued hazardous road conditions following last week’s winter weather.
According to Superintendent Patrick Franklin, while roadways across the county have seen significant melting compared to earlier in the week, icy patches remain widespread on secondary roads.
School officials said many roads are now passable for personal vehicles; however, low-hanging power lines and tree limbs near roadways continue to pose a significant safety risk for school buses.
Twelve-month employees are expected to report to work when it is safe to do so.
County and state crews are continuing efforts to treat icy areas and improve road conditions throughout Habersham County.
School officials thanked families and staff for their patience and support as cleanup efforts continue and emphasized that student safety remains the top priority.
Habersham News will provide updates as additional announcements are made.
LAKEMONT — The Rabun County Sheriff’s Office reports that a man has been arrested following an incident in which power crews were threatened and shot at while attempting to restore electrical service.
According to Sheriff Mark Gerrells, deputies responded to a call Tuesday regarding a man threatening and firing shots at utility workers in the area of Bluebird Lane and Old Highway 441 in Lakemont. The power crews were in the area working to restore service when the incident occurred.
Following a search of the area, deputies located Bobby Allen Mashburn, a 56-year-old Lakemont resident, who was taken into custody without further incident.
After an investigation, Mashburn was charged with one count of reckless conduct, two counts of terroristic threats, and two counts of aggravated assault. Authorities also seized a firearm in connection with the incident.
Sheriff Gerrells emphasized that threats or acts of violence against utility workers or individuals performing essential services will not be tolerated in Rabun County. Officials noted that utility crews are working under difficult conditions to restore services and ensure public safety, and any actions placing them in danger are taken seriously.
The incident remains under investigation. As with all criminal cases, Mashburn is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Sheriff Gerrells also expressed appreciation for the cooperation of responding agencies and thanked power crews for their continued efforts to serve the community.
North Georgia Technical College announced that all three NGTC campuses and Adult Education centers will be closed on Wednesday, January 28, due to ongoing challenges caused by recent weather conditions.
College officials said the decision was made out of an abundance of caution as weather-related impacts continue across the region, including hazardous road conditions and lingering effects from the winter storm.
Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to monitor official NGTC communication channels for updates regarding campus operations and future schedule changes.
Habersham News will continue to share closure updates as information becomes available.
BALDWIN, Ga. — Cook Construction representatives met with residents Tuesday evening at Baldwin City Hall to answer questions and gather feedback on a proposed commercial development near Duncan Bridge Road and Ga. 365.
The two-hour, drop-in style meeting was designed to provide information ahead of any formal public hearings and followed last week’s decision by the Baldwin City Council to table annexation and zoning requests in order to allow additional public input.
Strong Turnout, Wide Range of Views
Mayor Doug Faust described the turnout as strong for an informal session and said the meeting offered residents an opportunity to learn more about the proposal and ask questions directly. While some Baldwin residents attended, city officials noted that many attendees came from surrounding communities as well.
Traffic emerged as the most frequently raised concern throughout the evening, particularly along the Ga. 365 corridor near Duncan Bridge. City leaders and developers acknowledged those concerns and emphasized that traffic improvements would be subject to Georgia Department of Transportation review and approval.
Baldwin City Councilman Joe Elam (red shirt) listens to his consituents/Photo Habersham News
Councilman Joe Elam said the meeting functioned as a true listening session, with residents expressing a wide range of opinions. Some attendees voiced concerns about traffic, water capacity, and potential tax impacts, while others raised the possibility that additional commercial development could help broaden the tax base and offset existing tax burdens.
Elam said he is remaining neutral at this stage and is focused on hearing from residents before any decisions are made.
Tom Lyrich moved to Habersham 32 years ago for a quiet, low-key, family-oriented place/Photo Habersham News
Longtime Residents Voice Concerns
Among those attending was Tom Lyrich, a resident who has lived in the area since 1994. Wiler said he chose the area for its small-town feel and quiet lifestyle after moving from a large metropolitan area. He expressed concern that additional development could change the character of the community and increase traffic and safety risks, particularly given the frequency of accidents along Ga. 365.
Several residents echoed similar concerns, emphasizing safety, quality of life, and the need for infrastructure improvements before any large-scale development moves forward.
Supporters Cite Growth and Economic Opportunity
Other attendees spoke in favor of considering the project, including residents who believe controlled commercial growth could help diversify Baldwin’s tax base. Some supporters noted the lack of retail options in the area and pointed to residents traveling outside the county for shopping and services.
Discussion during the meeting also touched on Baldwin’s existing zoning ordinance, which outlines a wide range of allowable uses under highway business zoning. City officials acknowledged that zoning language dates back to 2006 and said questions about zoning clarity and updates were valid points for future consideration.
Developer Addresses Misinformation and Process
Cook Construction co-owner Keith Cook said one of the primary goals of the meeting was to address misinformation surrounding the project. He clarified that Cook Construction does not currently own the property and has not cleared timber on the site. According to Cook, timber clearing now underway is being conducted by the current landowner.
Cook and the company’s attorney, Vince Fitzgerald, repeatedly emphasized that the zoning being requested is highway business and does not include residential development. They stated that no apartments or housing are part of the current proposal and that any future residential plans would require a separate application and public approval process.
During discussions with residents, Cook explained how water and sewer capacity would be handled, noting that developers typically pre-purchase capacity from the city, allowing municipalities to use those funds to upgrade infrastructure and expand future capacity.
Cook also outlined the timeline involved if the project were to move forward. Even with approval, he said, development would not be immediate. The process would include extensive engineering work, city and GDOT reviews, and multiple rounds of approvals, potentially taking several years before any construction begins. Under that timeline, visible development could still be years away.
Two local citizens listen to Keith Cook. Both shared their opposition to the project moving forward/Photo Habersham News
Traffic and Infrastructure Central to Discussion
Traffic remained the dominant issue throughout the evening. Cook Construction representatives said traffic planning would be governed by GDOT requirements and could include road widening, turn lanes, access roads, and traffic signals as required by state standards.
Cook emphasized that no development could proceed without GDOT approval and that traffic mitigation would be a central part of the engineering process.
What Happens Next
City officials reiterated that Tuesday’s meeting was informational only and did not constitute a public hearing. Any annexation or zoning request would require formal public hearings and multiple readings before the Baldwin City Council.
Baldwin Mayor Doug Faust (black jacket and glasses) listens to his constituents/Photo Habersham News
Mayor Faust said he continues to evaluate the proposal and stressed the importance of balancing opportunity with responsibility. Council members indicated they will continue listening to residents before determining next steps.
Cook Construction representatives encouraged residents to stay engaged and participate in future public meetings, including comprehensive plan updates, which guide long-term land use decisions.
Habersham News will continue to follow the process and provide updates as additional information becomes available.
Habersham County Schools will remain closed for students and staff on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, due to ongoing hazardous road conditions across the county.
Superintendent Patrick Franklin said school officials have identified numerous icy side roads, fallen trees, and low-hanging power lines, creating unsafe travel conditions for student drivers and school buses.
District leaders will reevaluate road conditions on Wednesday to determine whether schools can safely reopen on Thursday.
Habersham County Schools officials continue to work closely with county departments and power providers as crews address storm-related damage and restore services throughout the area.
Franklin expressed appreciation for the efforts of first responders and utility crews who have been working through difficult conditions following the winter storm.
Families are encouraged to continue limiting travel when possible and to monitor official school communication channels for updates regarding Thursday’s schedule.
Habersham News will share additional information as it becomes available.
Partnership Habersham will hold its January Monthly Meeting on Wednesday, January 28, featuring a Marketing and Branding Panel designed to provide practical resources for local businesses.
The meeting will take place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Mt. Airy Town Hall, located at 1231 Dicks Hill Parkway in Mt. Airy.
The program, titled “Resources to Grow Your Business,” will focus on marketing and branding strategies aimed at helping businesses strengthen their presence and connect more effectively with customers. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear insights from panel participants and learn about tools and resources available to support business growth in Habersham County and the surrounding area.
Breakfast will be sponsored by Traditions Bank.
Despite recent weather-related disruptions across the region, Partnership Habersham officials confirmed the meeting will proceed as scheduled and encouraged members and guests to attend.
Partnership Habersham serves as the county’s economic development organization, working to support existing businesses, recruit new investment, and enhance the overall quality of life in the community.
BALDWIN, Ga. — A public participation meeting moderated by Cook Construction is scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, to provide residents with information and an opportunity to learn more about a proposed commercial development near Duncan Bridge Road and Ga. 365.
“The Duncan Project” concept plan map/Photo Cook & Co. Website
The meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Baldwin City Hall Community Room, located at 186 U.S. 441. Organizers have confirmed the session will move forward as planned despite ongoing cleanup efforts following last week’s winter storm.
The meeting is intended to share preliminary details about the project and gather public input. No votes will be taken, and the session does not constitute an official public hearing under Baldwin’s zoning or annexation process. Any future annexation or rezoning requests would require separate public hearings and formal action by the Baldwin City Council.
Proposed annexation map for “The Duncan Project”/Photo Cook & Co. Website
The meeting follows action by the Baldwin City Council last week to table Cook Construction’s annexation and zoning requests in order to allow additional time for public review and community discussion.
Cook Construction and Real Estate is a Northeast Georgia–based construction and development group with past and current projects in Habersham County. The company states its focus is on developing properties that enhance quality of life while balancing community priorities with practical development goals.
The proposed “Duncan Bridge Project” is described as a mixed-use commercial development that could include grocery, retail, restaurants, medical offices, and assisted living facilities for seniors. According to project materials, recent market data indicates that Habersham County residents currently travel more than 15 miles to access many retail and service options, contributing to an estimated $500 million in consumer spending outside the county each year. The proposal also cites a growing senior population, noting more than 9,000 Habersham County residents are over age 55, while there are fewer than 400 publicly known assisted living beds in the area.
Developers indicate that all proposed uses would meet the City of Baldwin’s existing development standards.
The project involves six total parcels. One portion of the property is already within the Baldwin city limits, while additional acreage would require annexation. The proposed annexation area includes approximately 88.4 acres, with the total project encompassing roughly 109.38 acres.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Cook Construction representatives are expected to outline the concept plan and respond to questions from attendees. Residents are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposal and provide feedback ahead of any future public hearings.
Residents interested in learning more about the proposal ahead of the meeting can view additional details and concept information on Cook Construction’s website at https://thecookandcompany.com/duncanproject/
Habersham County Schools will be closed for students and staff on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, due to ongoing hazardous conditions across the county.
Superintendent Patrick Franklin said school officials have been coordinating throughout the day with local government leaders, power providers, and emergency management personnel as the storm continues to impact the area.
According to Franklin, many roads remain impassable because of downed trees and power lines. In addition, extreme cold temperatures overnight are expected to refreeze roads, bus stops, and parking lots, creating unsafe conditions for school buses and student drivers.
“Tonight, extreme cold temperatures will refreeze many roads, bus stops, and parking lots making it unsafe for our buses and student drivers,” Franklin said.
District officials also urged residents to limit travel as much as possible, allowing power crews and county road crews to continue restoration and cleanup efforts safely.
In addition to K-12 school closures, North Georgia Technical College announced that all three NGTC campuses and Adult Education centers will be closed Tuesday, January 27, due to continuing challenges caused by the inclement weather.
A Facebook post from Piedmont University/Photo Piedmont University Facebook
Meanwhile, Piedmont University announced that it plans to resume classes and campus operations on Wednesday, January 28. University officials emphasized that safety remains the top priority and encouraged flexibility for those affected by storm conditions.
“Students, faculty, and staff who cannot safely return to campus should contact their supervisor or professor(s),” the university said.
Habersham News will continue to share updates as conditions evolve and additional announcements are made.
As residents continue to deal with power outages and cold conditions, Lowe’s in Cornelia reports that it has generators and heaters currently in stock, with additional supplies on the way.
A pallet of generators/Photo Habersham News
A pallet of propane heaters/Photo Habersham News
According to store management Jeremy Gattis, a new shipment of chain saws is also expected to arrive soon, which may help residents with storm cleanup and debris removal once conditions improve.
Residents are reminded to use generators and heating equipment safely, following manufacturer instructions and all safety guidelines, particularly when operating equipment during extended power outages.
Habersham News will continue to share local supply updates as recovery efforts continue.
Habersham County continues recovery efforts following significant storm damage, with 115 roads currently impacted by multiple downed trees. At least 50% of these roads have power lines entangled in debris, creating hazardous conditions.
County road crews have been rotating rest periods throughout the event and remain fully prepared to resume operations. We are coordinating closely with Georgia Power and Habersham Electric Membership Corporation (HEMC) to ensure safe and efficient clearing of roadways.
While travel conditions have improved compared to previous days, roads remain unsafe for public travel. We strongly urge residents to stay off roadways whenever possible while crews prioritize clearing main thoroughfares first, followed by smaller arterial roads. Many destinations may still be inaccessible due to blocked routes, downed trees, and active power lines.
To accelerate response in the hardest hit areas, we have four GEMA-provided tree crews assisting in the most severely affected zones. The heaviest damage occurred from the Orchard area westward to White County and northward to Rabun County, though scattered pockets of damage remain throughout the county.
Additionally, salt treatments of school bus routes, arterial roads, and emergency service stations have been implemented. However, trees must be cleared from roadways before these routes can be treated.
Public safety remains our top priority. Residents should avoid downed trees and power lines, treat all utility lines as live, and report urgent road hazards to the appropriate authorities.
We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we work to restore safe travel as quickly as possible.
Habersham EMC says power and internet restoration efforts are continuing across the county after crews worked through the night and will remain on the job until service is fully restored.
In a message posted at 7 a.m., the utility said safety remains the top priority as crews operate in extremely challenging conditions, including bitter cold and treacherous roadways.
“We do understand that it is extremely cold,” Habersham EMC said, noting that crews are working around the clock while also hoping to return home to their families once restoration efforts are complete. Customers are encouraged to continue implementing plans for extended power outages, as full restoration will take time.
Habersham EMC cautioned that estimated restoration times may fluctuate throughout the day, explaining that system updates occur as circuits are switched and power is rerouted. Officials emphasized that they are able to see the status of every meter in their system, both on and off, allowing crews to track progress in real time.
An HEMC lineman repairs a pole to restore power/Photo Habersham EMC
According to the utility, more than 350 people — including EMC employees, contractors, and assistance from neighboring cooperative crews — are currently involved in the restoration effort. Crews are aware of every outage location and are working to reach each one as quickly and safely as possible.
With roads remaining icy and hazardous, EMC officials urge residents to use extreme caution if they must travel and to stay off the roads whenever possible to allow utility crews and emergency responders to operate safely.
Habersham EMC thanked customers for their patience and understanding as restoration work continues. Habersham News will share additional updates as new information becomes available.
As of 9:50 p.m., widespread power outages and hazardous conditions continue across Habersham County as the winter storm moves through the area.
According to Habersham EMC, there are currently 293 active outages, affecting 18,956 customers out of their total 38,205 county customers. Georgia Power reports 32 outages, impacting 1,679 customers out of 8,706 in Habersham County.
Utility crews are working under difficult conditions to restore service, but officials caution that outages may persist as weather conditions continue to deteriorate.
All Habersham County schools, as well as county and city government offices, remain closed. Residents should continue to plan accordingly for extended closures and potential power outages.
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office has reiterated its request that anyone who is not a first responder stay off the roads tomorrow. Roadways remain icy and dangerous, with downed trees, power lines, and debris reported across the county. Keeping roads clear allows emergency personnel and utility crews to work safely and efficiently.
Residents are encouraged to:
Stay home if at all possible
Avoid unnecessary travel
Report power outages through official utility channels
Call 911 to report downed power lines or immediate hazards
Habersham News will continue to monitor conditions and share verified updates as information becomes available. Above all, officials urge everyone to remain patient, cautious, and focused on safety during this ongoing storm.
UPDATE: Sheriff’s Office Releases List of Roads Closed Across Habersham County
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office has released an updated list of roads that are currently blocked or impassable due to storm debris and extremely hazardous conditions.
Officials report more than 50 roads across the county remain affected, with additional closures possible as rain, strong winds, and dangerously low temperatures continue. Roads remain icy and unsafe, and residents are strongly urged to stay home and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Below is a list of road closures and affected areas as reported by the Sheriff’s Office:
Reported Road Closures and Blockages:
Alec Mountain Rd / Amys Creek Rd
Mineral Springs Trl Conn / Twin River
STHWY 17 / Medicine Bow Ln
120 N Railroad Ave
Habersham Mills Rd / Quarry Rd
STHWY 115 / Heartland Dr
101 Main St, Tallulah Falls
295 Tallulah Gorge Scenic Loop
Ben Jones Rd
W Water St / Daisy Dr
825 River Bend Rd
Thacker Rd
New Liberty Rd / Ben Jones Rd
Ben T Huiet Hwy / Sey Wailo Trl
709 New Liberty Rd
961 New Liberty Rd
430 New Liberty Rd
1668 New Liberty Rd
Goshen Mt Rd / Goshen Creek Rd
3984 N STHWY 197
7030 N STHWY 197
Doe Heights / N STHWY 197
Beaver Dam Rd / N STHWY 197
Ben Jones Rd / STHWY 197
N STHWY 197 / Mill Creek Rd
565 Yearwood Rd
547 Yearwood Rd
1403 Hardman Rd
5134 STHWY 17
STHWY 17 / Broken Arrow
STHWY 17 / Sam Bell Rd
STHWY 17 / Rising Sun Ln
Preacher Campbell Rd / STHWY 17
6345 STHWY 17
2635 STHWY 255
443 STHWY 105
4175 Toccoa Hwy
Frank Lovell Rd / Mack Eller Rd
Ernest Dover Rd / Hollywood Church Rd
1273 Hollywood Church Rd
669 Hollywood Church Rd
Hollywood Hwy / Lone Wolf Way
375 Habersham Mills Rd
Old River Rd / Duncan Bridge
On Golden Pond
Rennie Hames Rd / Timber Ridge Dr
Zeb Bryson Rd / Rennie Hames Rd
2371 Alley’s Chapel Rd
2856 Oakey Mtn Rd
629 Trotter Rd
181 Brightwell St
255 Main St
Roberson Loop / Oakhill Ln
2291 Alec Mountain Rd
196 Woodvale St
441 Old Historic Hwy / John Cross Sr Rd
189 Sanders St
352 Mandys Cove
125 Bobwhite Trl
125 Unity Hills Rd
211 Whitewater Rd
Officials emphasize that this list may continue to change as crews assess conditions and clear debris.
Residents are reminded:
Do not touch downed trees or power lines
Report hazards by calling 911
Stay off the roads if at all possible
County and utility crews are working as quickly and safely as conditions allow. The Sheriff’s Office asks for patience and cooperation as response efforts continue.
Habersham News will provide updates as additional information becomes available.
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office reports that more than 50 roads across the county are currently blocked due to storm-related debris, with conditions expected to worsen as the storm continues through the evening.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, additional downed trees, fallen power lines, and other debris are anticipated as rain continues, followed by strong wind gusts and dangerously low temperatures. Officials say these conditions are creating extremely hazardous and icy roadways throughout the county.
Residents are strongly urged to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel, allowing emergency responders and power crews to safely do their jobs. “Road conditions are extremely icy and dangerous at this time,” officials warned.
County road crews are actively working to clear blocked roadways as conditions allow, but officials note that continued weather impacts may slow response efforts.
The Sheriff’s Office also reminds residents not to touch downed trees or power lines under any circumstances. Any downed trees or power lines should be reported immediately by calling 911.
Officials say they are keeping the community in their prayers and urge everyone to remain cautious. “Please stay home and stay safe,” the Sheriff’s Office said.
Residents across Habersham County are being urged to stay off the roads tomorrow if travel is not absolutely necessary, as winter weather continues to create potentially hazardous driving conditions.
All Habersham County government offices as well as city government offices throughout the county will be closed tomorrow. Officials say the closures are intended to prioritize public safety and reduce unnecessary travel during the storm.
Even roads that appear clear can quickly become dangerous due to ice, black ice, or rapidly changing conditions—especially on bridges, hills, and shaded areas. Authorities encourage residents to delay travel when possible and allow road crews and emergency responders the space they need to work safely.
“Staying home if you don’t need to be out helps protect not only you, but also first responders and utility crews who may already be stretched thin responding to emergencies,” officials said.
Residents who must travel are urged to use extreme caution, reduce speeds, and watch for slick spots. Drivers should also avoid downed power lines and report hazardous conditions to local authorities.
Habersham News will continue to share updates as information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, especially the elderly, and to stay informed through official channels.
Above all, officials stress a simple message: if you don’t have to drive, please stay home and stay safe.
As freezing temperatures and the threat of ice move into Habersham County, local officials and emergency responders are reminding residents that one of the most important safety measures during severe winter weather doesn’t come from a store or a supply kit — it comes from neighbors helping neighbors.
Ice storms often bring power outages, blocked roads, and limited access to emergency services, especially in rural parts of the county. Officials say those conditions can be particularly dangerous for elderly residents, people with medical needs, and those who live alone.
Residents are encouraged to take a few moments to check in on neighbors — especially seniors, those with disabilities, or families without reliable transportation or heat sources.
Simple Ways to Help
Make a phone call or send a text to check on nearby residents
Ensure neighbors have heat, food, water, and medications
Offer help charging phones or devices if power is lost
Assist with safe transportation if travel becomes necessary
Share accurate information and avoid spreading rumors
Even a brief check-in can make a meaningful difference during prolonged cold weather.
Safety First
Officials stress that residents should not travel if conditions are unsafe and should never put themselves at risk. Help should be offered when it can be done safely and responsibly.
Emergency crews will remain on duty throughout the storm, but icy conditions and fallen trees could delay response times. Community awareness and cooperation can help bridge that gap.
A Community Effort
Habersham County has weathered severe winter storms before, and time and again residents have stepped up to support one another.
As this storm approaches, officials urge residents to prepare ahead of time, stay informed through trusted sources, and remember that looking out for one another is one of the strongest tools the community has.
Habersham News will continue providing updates on weather conditions, closures, and safety information as the situation develops.
