ATLANTA — It's been a decade since the City of Atlanta shut down from exactly 2.6 inches of snow -- an event known to Georgians as Snow Jam.
One of the more memorable images from the winter storm 10 years ago was dozens of cars stranded on the normally busy interstate. People were stranded on I-75 for hours on the icy roads; some were forced to abandon their vehicles.
Natalie Worrell recalls the chaos
Natalie Worrell, who vividly remembers the events of that day, shared her experience.
"It never occurred to me that a little precipitation could shut down the city so badly," Worrell said. She found herself stuck like thousands of other drivers, attempting to navigate the treacherous conditions.
Worrell's initial attempt to avoid the congestion proved futile.
"I'll just go to the next exit and turn around and come that way. That was not the brightest idea," she admitted.
With the exit ramp jammed with stranded cars, Worrell realized she had no choice but to spend the night in her vehicle.
"I was like, there will be no turning the car on. I did for a brief moment to charge my phone, but other than that, I just left my car off," Worrell recounted.
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Snow Jam | A look back 10 years later
Dr. Jayne Morgan's safety advice
Dr. Jayne Morgan, a weather expert, emphasized the importance of staying with your car in harsh weather conditions to avoid exposure to extreme elements and the risk of hypothermia.
"The safest thing, especially in harsh weather conditions, is to stay with your car and not expose yourself to the harsh weather and the risk of hypothermia," advised Dr. Morgan.
She also recommended having a backup battery, perishable items for sustenance, water, and multiple blankets to stay warm.
Beyond the basics: surviving the cold
Worrell, having learned from her experience, went beyond the basics.
"I had cat litter in the back of my car," she shared.
The survival tips serve as a crucial reminder for Atlanta residents to be prepared for unexpected weather events and ensure they have the necessary supplies to endure unforeseen circumstances on the road.
As the city marks the 10th anniversary of the icy gridlock, the memories of that day serve as a cautionary tale, prompting motorists to prioritize safety and preparedness during adverse weather conditions.