ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency ahead of winter weather and freezing temperatures expected in the Peach State on Tuesday.

The state of emergency order authorizes “the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to activate the State Operations Center and mobilize any needed resources to address potential impacts.”

The order also authorizes up to 250 Georgia National Guard troops if needed in any efforts for the weather, both before and after.

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“Before the full force of the incoming winter weather arrives, many Georgians are already experiencing dangerously low temperatures ahead of expected freezing precipitation on Tuesday,” Kemp said. “Throughout the weekend, I have been working with our state agencies to ensure we’re prepared, and the Georgia Department of Transportation has been treating roadways since Sunday morning. They, along with our emergency management and public safety teams, will be working throughout this winter storm. As we continue to coordinate with state and local officials throughout the state, I urge everyone to make their own preparations to ensure they and their families can remain safe over the coming days, especially if road conditions prevent travel.”

FIRST ALERT FORECAST: Dangerous cold Monday, snow possible for some Tuesday

The state of emergency order also prohibits price gouging and “suspends hours-of-service limitations for commercial vehicle operators involved in response activities; and temporarily increases weight, height, and length limits for commercial vehicles transporting essential supplies,” Kemp’s office said in a press release.

The state of emergency will last through Tuesday, Jan. 28.

The First Alert Weather Team says a winter storm watch will go into effect Tuesday morning for the potential of up to two inches of snow. That would include the city of Atlanta, but it’s looking unlikely Atlanta and areas north of the city will pick up even an inch of snow.

All of south Georgia and much of central Georgia will also be included in the winter storm watch.

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