CITY OF ATHENS PREPARES FOR WEEKEND WINTER WEATHER

The City of Athens is actively monitoring forecasts for a winter weather event expected this weekend and is taking proactive steps to protect public safety and maintain essential services. City crews are applying brine and salt to roadways to help reduce hazardous driving conditions as temperatures drop and precipitation moves into the area.

GARBAGE COLLECTION & RECYCLE CENTER SERVICE UPDATE

Due to inclement weather, the City is implementing the following operational adjustments:

• Recycle Center: The Recycle Center will be closed tomorrow (Saturday, January 31, 2026) and will reopen Monday, February 2, 2026 during normal business hours.
• Commercial Pickups: Commercial customers/businesses scheduled for pickups tomorrow will be picked up today (Friday, January 30, 2026).
• Residential Routes: All residential routes will remain on a normal schedule.

WEATHER PREPAREDNESS & PUBLIC INFORMATION

The National Weather Service briefing indicates accumulating snowfall is likely, with a brief rain/snow mix possible at onset Friday afternoon transitioning to all snow, followed by very cold conditions continuing through Sunday night. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, limit travel as conditions worsen, and allow extra time for road crews to treat routes.

Residents will receive ongoing updates through the City of Athens website and official social media channels as conditions evolve.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Emergency services will remain available and will continue monitoring weather conditions as the City prepares for potential impacts. All Emergency Services will continue to operate on a 24-hour basis. In the event of an emergency, contact McMinn E911 Communications.