Atlanta's interstate highways now 'passable'

"Some icy conditions persist so extreme caution is advised," the advisory states.

The announcement came only 12 hours after GDOT's 5 a.m. warning that there was at least an inch of ice coating all of the interstates through and around metro Atlanta.

But the Georgia State Patrol stepped in and closed ramps and managed traffic so that the highways could be cleared.

“We are grateful for the assistance and partnership of the Georgia State Patrol even though their resources were stretched," said District Engineer Bryant Poole.

Removing the ice required the use of calcium chloride, liquid de-icer and a salt/gravel mixture. GDOT also hired contractors who used heavy equipment to break up the thick sheets of ice.

While rising temperatures aided the recovery effort, overnight temperatures are expected to dip below freezing, possibly resulting in re-icing of roadways, the advisory states.

Motorists may call 511 on their cellphones to obtain real-time traffic and travel information such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather. Callers may transfer to operators to request assistance or to report incidents around the clock, the advisory states.