Georgia’s Red Cross is working closely with emergency partners to monitor the weekend arrival of Winter Storm Diego as it continues its crawl across the Southern U.S. The storm is expected to dump several inches of rain in Georgia, which could evolve as ice and snow in the northern one third of the state.

Freezing temperatures, flash flooding, downed trees and power outages are possible beginning Saturday and into early next week. The Red Cross is asking all Georgians to prepare, now, and remain alert for changing conditions, which can be difficult to forecast.

“One of the first things everyone should do is download the free, Red Cross Emergency App to their mobile phones,” said Carlos Mercado, director of disaster operations for Georgia’s Red Cross. “With this one app, you can subscribe to emergency alerts, connect with your family, and have clear guidance on what to do before, during and after winter weather, floods, power outages, home fires and more. I can’t say enough about the benefit of having this app on your phone, ready to go.”

The Red Cross advised residents to create a household evacuation plan that includes pets and be prepared to evacuate quickly if asked to do so, know your routes and destinations. They also advised that residents stay connected with friends and family and share their plans. 

They further recommended that residents listen to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates and check city/county website regularly. Residents should also know the difference between weather “watches” and “warnings. 

The Red Cross advised to avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog and turn around if necessary. If you must drive and encounter a flooded roadway while driving, go another way. It also advise that if the power goes out, residents should use flashlights instead of candles.