CITY OF ATHENS PREPARING 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 ensure public safety and maintain essential services. While conditions are not currently expected to be as severe as originally projected, the City is continuing with all planned preparations.
The National Weather Service Morristown is forecasting mixed precipitation Saturday into Sunday, with freezing rain and sleet expected to be the predominant impacts. The most impactful period is expected Saturday afternoon through Sunday. City crews will continue applying brine and salt to roadways starting Friday to help prevent hazardous driving conditions.
Residents should also be aware of the following weather-related service updates:

• The Recycle Center will be closed Saturday, January 24, 2026, and is tentatively scheduled to re-open Monday, January 26, 2026, weather permitting.
• Residential garbage collection for Monday, January 26, 2026, is planned to run on a regular schedule unless weather Sunday night prevents crews from operating. If conditions do not allow collection on Monday, pickup is planned for Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
• Residents should place garbage totes curbside Sunday, January 25, 2026, to ensure they are out in time for pickup.
  

Citizens are also encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications through the McMinn County Emergency Alert System to receive timely alerts related to weather and public safety. Registration is available at: https://mcminncountytn.gov/ems_signup.html

Additionally, residents should be aware of the McMinn Warming Center, located at 714 Walter Street in Athens. The Warming Center is available as an overnight shelter when temperatures fall to 32 degrees or below. More information can be found at: https://www.mcminnwarmingcenter.com/

Emergency services will remain available and will continue monitoring weather conditions throughout the week as the City prepares for the potential winter storm. All Emergency Services will continue to operate on a 24-hour basis. Contact McMinn E911 Communications in the event of an emergency.

The City of Athens appreciates the public’s cooperation and encourages residents to remain weather-aware and take appropriate precautions.