Atlanta Weather: What to Expect Through the Year

Atlanta weather is known for mild winters, long warm seasons, and humid summers with frequent thunderstorms. If you live in Atlanta, are planning a visit, or are considering a move, understanding the city’s weather patterns will help you plan your clothing, activities, and even your commute.

Below is a clear, locally focused guide to what Atlanta weather is really like, season by season and day to day.

Big-Picture Overview of Atlanta’s Weather

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate. In practical terms, that means:

• Hot, humid summers with regular afternoon thunderstorms
• Mild to cool winters with occasional brief cold snaps
• Comfortable spring and fall that many residents consider the best time of year
• Rain spread throughout the year, not just one “rainy season”

You’ll notice:

• Heat and humidity building from late May through September
• Cooler, often rainy spells in winter
• Pollen-heavy springs
• Sudden weather changes driven by passing storm systems or tropical remnants

Atlanta’s elevation—roughly 1,000 feet above sea level in many neighborhoods—is slightly higher than many other Southeast cities. That can make the city a bit less hot than coastal areas, but it’s still solidly warm and humid for much of the year.

Atlanta Weather by Season

Spring (March–May)

Spring in Atlanta is often pleasant but variable.

Typical conditions:

• Temperatures: Often in the 60s to 70s°F (mid-teens to mid-20s°C) during the day
• Nights: Cooler, especially in March, occasionally dipping into the 40s°F
• Rain: Regular showers and thunderstorms, sometimes heavy
• Humidity: Increasing but usually not as intense as summer

You’ll see:

• Frequent temperature swings—a warm, almost summer-like day may be followed by a cool, breezy one.
• Thunderstorms that can roll through quickly, especially in April and May.
• Strong pollen seasons, especially from trees in March–April.

What locals usually do:

• Keep a light jacket and an umbrella handy
• Use layers—mornings can be cool, afternoons warm
• Plan outdoor events like festivals, patios, and park days, with a backup plan for showers

Summer (June–August)

Summer defines Atlanta weather for many people: hot, long, and humid.

Typical conditions:

• Daytime highs: Commonly in the upper 80s to 90s°F (around 30–35°C)
• Nights: Warm and muggy, often staying in the 70s°F
• Humidity: High, making it feel hotter than the temperature suggests
• Rain: Frequent afternoon and evening thunderstorms, often short but intense

You’ll notice:

• Heat index (what it “feels like”) higher than the actual temperature
• Storms that seem to pop up quickly on hot afternoons
• Occasional strong thunderstorms with heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds

Practical tips for summer in Atlanta:

• ☀️ Plan outdoor activities early or late: Morning and evening are generally more comfortable.
• 💧 Stay hydrated: Especially if you’re walking around Downtown, Midtown, or the BeltLine.
• 👕 Wear light, breathable clothing: Cotton or moisture-wicking materials help.
• 🚗 Keep an eye on storms: Sudden downpours can impact driving visibility and traffic.

Air conditioning is standard in homes, offices, MARTA trains, and most public buildings. If you’re visiting, expect to move between hot, humid streets and cool indoor spaces.

Fall (September–November)

Fall is one of the most comfortable and popular seasons in Atlanta.

Typical conditions:

• September: Still warm, often feeling like a lighter version of summer
• October–November: Mild days, cooler mornings and evenings
• Lower humidity than summer
• A mix of sunny days and passing fronts that can bring rain and cooler air

You’ll see:

• Gradual cooling starting in late September
• Crisp mornings becoming more common in October and November
• Fall colors in local parks and neighborhoods, especially in late October–early November

What to expect day to day:

• Many days in the 60s–70s°F, comfortable for walking, hiking, and outdoor events
• Occasional fronts bringing breezy, cooler weather and some rain
• A relatively stable, predictable pattern compared with spring

Many Atlanta residents consider fall the best time for:

• Outdoor festivals and sports
• Visiting Piedmont Park, the Atlanta BeltLine, Stone Mountain, or local trails
• Dining outside without intense heat or heavy humidity

Winter (December–February)

Atlanta winters are generally mild, but the weather can change quickly.

Typical conditions:

• Daytime highs: Often in the 40s–50s°F, sometimes into the 60s°F
• Nights: Commonly in the 30s–40s°F, with occasional dips below freezing
• Precipitation: Mostly rain, with occasional wintry mix or snow

Snow in Atlanta:

• Snow is infrequent and usually light when it does occur.
• When snow or ice does happen, it can disrupt travel because roads and drivers are not accustomed to prolonged winter conditions.
• Events of heavier snow or ice are uncommon but memorable, and the city often prepares by closing or reducing services when they’re expected.

What winters feel like to residents:

• Many days feel chilly but not harsh—a medium-weight jacket is often enough.
• Damp, cold rain can make it feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
• Sudden cold snaps can bring a day or two of significantly colder weather before temperatures bounce back.

Typical Atlanta Weather by Month (Quick View)

This table gives an approximate feel for typical Atlanta weather patterns across the year. Values are rounded and generalized, so plan-specific activities by checking a current forecast.

Rain, Storms, and Severe Weather in Atlanta

Everyday Rain and Thunderstorms

Atlanta sees rain throughout the year, not just in one season. Common patterns include:

• Afternoon thunderstorms in warm months
• Periods of steady rain with passing weather systems in cooler months
• Quick bursts of heavy rain during summer storms

If you’re commuting or flying through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, heavy rain and lightning can sometimes delay flights and slow traffic on interstates like I-75, I-85, I-20, and I-285.

Severe Weather and Alerts

Atlanta can experience:

• Severe thunderstorms with strong winds, heavy rain, and frequent lightning
• Occasional tornado warnings, especially in spring and sometimes fall
• Remnants of tropical systems from the Gulf or Atlantic that bring heavy rain

Residents and visitors often rely on:

• Weather apps and local TV stations for up-to-date alerts
• Weather radios or phone alerts for severe weather warnings
• Local agencies like Fulton County Emergency Management for guidance during significant weather events

If you’re staying in a hotel or visiting major venues, staff usually have severe weather procedures and can guide you on where to go in case of a warning.

Humidity and “Feels Like” Temperatures

Even if the thermometer shows a moderate number, Atlanta’s humidity can make it feel warmer in summer and cooler in winter.

• In summer, high humidity reduces how quickly sweat evaporates, causing that sticky, “heavy air” feeling. The heat index can be several degrees higher than the actual temperature.
• In winter, damp air plus wind can make chilly days feel colder than expected.

How locals typically adapt:

• Using air conditioning and fans during warm months
• Choosing light, breathable clothes in summer and layers in cooler seasons
• Planning outdoor exercise for mornings or evenings during peak heat

Air Quality, Haze, and Pollen

Atlanta’s weather pattern and geography can sometimes contribute to haze, smog, or stagnant air, especially on hot summer days when winds are light. Air quality can be a particular concern for:

• People spending long periods outdoors
• Those with respiratory sensitivities who may want to monitor air quality forecasts

Spring in Atlanta is also well known for intense pollen seasons, especially from:

• Trees in early to mid-spring
• Grasses and weeds later in the warm season

While pollen is not strictly “weather,” it closely tracks local weather patterns, and many residents use weather updates to anticipate high-pollen days.

Microclimates Across the Atlanta Area

While the overall climate is consistent, you may notice small differences:

• Urban core (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead):
  Often a bit warmer at night due to buildings, pavement, and traffic—the urban heat island effect.
• Outlying suburbs and higher elevations (such as parts of North Fulton, Cobb, or DeKalb counties):
  Can be slightly cooler, especially at night and during winter cold snaps.
• Low-lying or heavily wooded areas:
  Might feel more humid and can cool down a bit more overnight.

These differences are usually only a few degrees, but they can influence how the weather feels where you live, work, or stay.

Where Atlantans Get Official Weather Information

If you want reliable, locally focused weather updates for Atlanta, many residents look to:

• National Weather Service (NWS) – Peachtree City Office

  • Provides official forecasts, watches, and warnings for the Atlanta area.
  • Main forecast office (serving Metro Atlanta):
    • 4 Falcon Dr., Peachtree City, GA 30269
    • Public phone line is typically listed through national weather service directories.

• City and County Emergency Management Offices:
  These offices coordinate local preparedness and may share weather-related updates:

  • Atlanta Office of Emergency Preparedness – operates under the City of Atlanta government.
  • Fulton County Emergency Management Agency – coordinates for the county that includes much of the city of Atlanta:
    • 130 Peachtree Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
    • General county contact lines can direct you to emergency management resources.

• Local TV and radio weather
  TV stations and local radio frequently provide Atlanta-specific forecasts, radar, and severe weather coverage tailored to different neighborhoods and suburbs.

For day-to-day planning—like deciding what to wear, whether to bring an umbrella, or if a storm might affect your drive—most people combine official forecasts with real-time radar and phone alerts.

How Atlanta Weather Affects Daily Life

For someone living in or visiting Atlanta, weather shapes:

• Commuting:
  • Heavy rain can slow traffic on major interstates and surface streets.
  • Occasional winter ice or snow events can lead to school, business, and government closures.
• Outdoor activities:
  • Spring and fall are prime times for outdoor attractions like Piedmont Park, the Atlanta BeltLine, Zoo Atlanta, and local festivals.
  • Summer outdoor plans often revolve around shade, water, and timing to avoid midday heat.
• Clothing and home setup:
  • Air conditioning is standard and heavily used.
  • Residents commonly keep a range of clothing: from shorts and T-shirts for long warm seasons to jackets and coats for occasional winter cold snaps.

In summary, Atlanta weather is defined by:

• Long, hot, humid summers with frequent storms
• Mild, changeable winters with mostly rain and occasional wintry events
• Pleasant, often unpredictable springs and comfortable falls

Understanding these patterns helps you choose what to pack, how to plan your days, and what to expect from Atlanta’s climate throughout the year.