Ice, Downed Trees Causing Wrecks and Delays on Area Roads

Falling and downed trees are the major source of problems in Franklin and Stephens Counties.

Franklin County Sheriff Stevie Thomas said Carnesville was hit hard with trees reportedly in the roadways. Power lines falling into the roads are still being reported across Franklin County.

Thomas advises people should stay home this morning if possible so emergency crews and law enforcement can help those who need it.

“For the most part, this morning, we’ve got lots of downed trees and power lines,” he said. “Everybody needs to just stay put. We’re trying to help people who have to get to the hospitals to work and handle emergency situations.”

Overnight, the Georgia State Patrol Lavonia Post has been busy on state routes and the Interstate where trees falling on the Interstate have caused major traffic problems, according to Post 52 Commander Sgt. Al Whitworth.

“Right now the concern is trees falling along roadways,” Whitworth said. “I-85 was blocked at one point during the night for about an hour with fallen trees. That has been cleared up and I-85 is back open.”

Whitworth said multiple trees fell across I-85 on both the north and southbound sides between the SR63 exit and SR149 in Banks County overnight.

One lane is now open, but Whitworth advises motorists to use caution.

Whitworth said since yesterday afternoon, his troopers have handled 15 wrecks in the Franklin, Hart and Elbert County area – all due to the weather.

He advises people who don’t have to be out this morning to just stay home because the roads are still dicey.

“We definitely have slick spots on GA77 in Hart County and on the Interstate,” he said. “I just want to encourage people this morning to wait until later to get out. The temperature is supposed to rise and later this morning travel would be a little more recommended than it is now.”