As The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports, local governments across Metro Atlanta say they're better prepared for winter storms than in the past. They're also trying to keep local residents better informed.

Several governments already use warning systems to deliver alerts to residents via phone, e-mail or text. Others are adding them.

Gwinnett County, for example, now participates in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s wireless emergency alert program. DeKalb County already employs the Code Red alert system and is adding the National Weather Services’ Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System. The City of Atlanta also has implemented a new mass-notification system.

You can find more information about what local governments are doing to prepare for winter storms here.