Football fans tailgating before Saturday’s sold-out SEC Championship game in Atlanta better stock up on scarves along with their snacks and plan ahead for limited parking and heavy traffic downtown.
It will be another chilly morning, with temperatures dipping to 28 degrees in the city and the low to mid-20s in surrounding areas overnight. Be sure to bundle up if you’re gathering before the game or traveling to see the Georgia Bulldogs face off against the Texas Longhorns at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Conditions should get better by the 4 p.m. kickoff, though it will still be on the chilly side. Afternoon temperatures are forecast to reach the low to mid-50s. With mostly clear skies and little wind chill, you might feel a bit warmer if you’re standing in the sun.
Keep that in mind if you’re attending events and pep rallies at the Dr Pepper SEC FanFare, held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Temps will be back in the 40s by the time the game wraps or for doors to open for the 7 p.m. Lil Baby and Friends concert at State Farm Arena.
In addition to preparing for the weather, you’ll also need to plan ahead and be ready for limited parking and heavier traffic, Atlanta police warn. Officials ask fans to use MARTA or a ride-share service to reduce traffic congestion around the stadium, which has a capacity of 75,000 for the sold-out game.
“MARTA is the safest, easiest way to get around and avoid traffic and expensive parking fees,” agency spokesperson Stephany Fisher said in a statement.
If you do take your vehicle, police ask that you not leave any valuables, such as guns, purses, bags, jewelry or laptops, as “these items can attract criminals,” they said.
“A comprehensive public safety strategy will be in place throughout Atlanta,” the department said in a statement. “Officers will be stationed at strategic static posts, with rover teams enhancing mobility and responsiveness.”
Officials also urge people not to leave their unoccupied vehicles running and never leave the keys inside. And finally, always stay aware of your surroundings.
“By adhering to these guidelines and utilizing the enhanced public safety measures, you’ll help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for yourself and others in the city,” police said.
If you plan to take MARTA, and need a refresher on how to ride, check out the agency’s “How to Ride to Downtown Events” YouTube video. For parking availability at stations, visit the Key Station Parking Status section of its website, at itsmarta.com/parking. And to pay for your fare, download the Breeze Mobile 2.0 app.
For fans who scored tickets, gates open at 1:30 p.m. Just be aware that only clear bags will be admitted.
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
» For a detailed forecast, visit www.ajc.com/weather.
» For updated traffic information, listen to News 95.5 and AM 750 WSB and follow @WSBTraffic on X.
» Download The Atlanta Journal-Constitution app for weather alerts on-the-go.
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