Winter weather came knocking twice in January as snowstorms blanketed Atlanta, transforming Candler Park into a winter wonderland—and a temporary hazard zone. The January 10 storm, which dropped over two inches of snow across the metro area, marked the city’s most significant snowfall since 2014. While the picturesque scenery delighted many, the storm also left its mark on the neighborhood, causing power outages, road hazards, and one particularly harrowing emergency.
Emergency Response: A Close Call on Terrace Avenue
As snow accumulated and temperatures dropped, Candler Park residents braced for the storm’s impact. The most alarming incident occurred on Terrace Avenue, where a large tree, weighed down by snow and ice, came crashing down onto a home, trapping five people inside. According to reports from Fox 5 Atlanta and other local sources, Atlanta Fire Rescue responded swiftly, working in freezing conditions to safely remove our neighbors. Miraculously, all five were rescued without injuries, but the incident served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by Atlanta’s aging tree canopy during winter storms.
Power Outages and Treacherous Roads
Many in Candler Park woke up to find themselves without power as downed trees and icy conditions led to outages across the neighborhood. Georgia Power crews worked throughout the day to restore service, but some residents were left bundling up indoors for hours. Meanwhile, roads became slick and treacherous, with unprepared drivers struggling to navigate streets unaccustomed to winter weather. The city’s limited snow removal capabilities meant that many Candler Park residents opted to stay home, avoiding unnecessary travel.
A Winter Wonderland in the Park
Despite the challenges, the snowstorm also brought moments of joy and togetherness. Candler Park itself became a community hub, with families flocking to its open spaces for sledding, snowball fights, and the rare chance to build snowmen. Children who had never seen this much snow before reveled in the novelty, while longtime residents recalled previous snow events that similarly turned the neighborhood into a Southern snow globe.
A Lesson in Preparedness
While this storm was relatively short-lived, it served as an important lesson in winter preparedness. Experts urge residents to keep emergency supplies on hand, including flashlights, extra blankets, and non-perishable food items. Additionally, homeowners are encouraged to assess the health of large trees on their properties, as Atlanta’s tree-lined streets can become hazardous under the weight of ice and snow.
Looking Ahead
As temperatures rise and the snow melted away, life in Candler Park is returning to normal. Yet the storm’s impact lingers—both in the form of cleanup efforts and in the shared memories of a community that weathered the storm together. This storm was another reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that make Candler Park a special place to call home.
If this storm taught us anything, it’s that in Candler Park, when the snow falls, the community rises.