Your comprehensive, actionable guide to navigating emergencies in Atlanta.
This guide uses AI-researched data and is being verified by our team. Routes and locations should be confirmed before use in an emergency.
Atlanta's primary evacuation routes radiate from the city center via I-75, I-85, I-20, and GA-400. The I-75/I-85 connector through downtown is a critical bottleneck during any mass evacuation. Plan to use surface street alternatives like Peachtree Street, Piedmont Avenue, or Moreland Avenue to bypass the worst congestion.
During ice storm events, elevated highways and overpasses freeze first. Ground-level routes through neighborhoods are often safer. The BeltLine trail provides a car-free corridor connecting multiple neighborhoods.
Communication: Establish primary (cell/text) and secondary (out-of-state contact) methods. Atlanta's cell towers can be overwhelmed during storms. Use text messages which require less bandwidth than calls.
Meeting Points: Primary: Piedmont Park (Midtown). Secondary: Your local MARTA station. Out-of-area: Pre-designated contact in a neighboring state (TN or SC).
Roles: Assign roles: Person A - documents, medications, phone chargers. Person B - food, water, children. Person C - pets, vehicle fueling, route navigation.
Use this guide as a base for your personalized strategy.