State government offices will remain closed across much of north Georgia on Thursday for non-essential personnel as plunging temperatures and icy roads caused treacherous conditions.

Gov. Nathan Deal said he was acting on a recommendation from his emergency deputies in closing state government offices across 83 counties for a second day in a row. He said 12,800 miles of the nearly 18,000 miles of state roads and interstates still need to be cleared and treated for ice as of early Wednesday.

“In light of this, I urge people to stay home, stay safe and remain off our roadways,” he said. “We will continue monitoring the weather and will provide updates as necessary.”

The icy weather has led to hundreds of crashes across metro Atlanta, and forced most school systems and government offices in north Georgia to shut down. The 83 counties under emergency declaration can be found here.

The Georgia House, meanwhile, said it would be off to a delayed 2 p.m. start on Thursday.

WATCH: Drone Video of Snow in Georgia

About the Author

Keep Reading

Derek Dooley wasn't very successful as football coach of the Tennessee Vols. He's hoping for better results in his campaign for U.S. Senate. (File 2012 AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com