Will There Be Snow in Atlanta This Winter? What Locals and Visitors Should Know

If you live in Atlanta, you already know winter here is unpredictable. One week you’re in a light jacket on the BeltLine, the next you’re hearing about “black ice” on I-75. So, will there be snow in Atlanta this winter?

The honest answer: Snow in Atlanta is possible every winter, but not guaranteed. When it does happen, it’s usually light and short-lived, with an occasional bigger event every few years.

Below is a clear breakdown of what to realistically expect, how Atlanta winters usually work, and how to prepare so you’re not caught off guard.

How Often Does It Snow in Atlanta?

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, which means:

• Winters are generally mild
• Snow is infrequent, but not rare
• Ice and freezing rain are often a bigger issue than heavy snow

In a typical winter:

• Atlanta might see a dusting to a couple of inches total
• Some winters have no measurable snow at all
• Every few years, a stronger winter storm can bring several inches and significant disruptions

For residents and visitors, the key is to expect mostly cold rain, but plan for the possibility of 1–2 light snow or ice events between December and early March.

When Is Atlanta Most Likely to See Snow?

While snow can technically happen anytime in the cold season, the most likely window in the Atlanta area is:

• Late December through February
• With the highest chances typically in January and early February

Typical Atlanta Winter Pattern

• December: Mostly chilly and wet; occasional brief flurries possible, but big events are less common.
• January: Often the coldest month, with the best chance of meaningful snow or ice.
• February: Still capable of winter storms, especially early in the month, but mild days become more frequent.
• Early March: Rare, but not impossible, to see a late-season flurry or light snow.

Snow vs. Ice: What Causes the Real Problems in Atlanta?

People often ask about snow, but in Atlanta, the bigger concern is usually:

• Freezing rain
• Sleet
• Black ice

These can cause:

• Hazardous driving conditions 🚗
• School and office closures
• Power outages in more serious events

Because the city doesn’t experience winter weather day after day like northern cities, roads, trees, and power lines aren’t always prepared for even small amounts of ice.

Snow events:

• Often melt quickly if temperatures rise above freezing the next day
• May look dramatic but are sometimes less dangerous than thin, invisible ice on bridges and overpasses

What This Winter Might Look Like (Big-Picture Expectations)

While exact snowfall totals cannot be predicted far in advance, forecasters do look at:

• Large-scale climate patterns (like warmer or cooler ocean temperatures)
• Typical Southeast winter behavior in similar years
• Average temperatures and precipitation for Atlanta

From year to year, this usually translates into one of these broad outcomes:

For planning purposes, it’s safest to assume at least one winter weather advisory or warning will occur at some point in the season, even if total snow is low.

How to Check If Snow Is in the Forecast for Atlanta

Because conditions change quickly, the best way to know if snow is coming to Atlanta this winter is to:

• Monitor short-term forecasts (3–7 days out)
• Check hour-by-hour details when a storm system approaches
• Look specifically for winter weather advisories, watches, and warnings

Helpful Official Sources for Atlanta Weather

These organizations provide reliable, up-to-date information:

• National Weather Service – Atlanta Forecast Area
  • Covers metro Atlanta with detailed forecasts and alerts
• City of Atlanta – Office of Emergency Management
  • Shares preparedness information and city response updates in winter weather
• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
  • Updates on road conditions, closures, and treatment efforts

You can get alerts via weather apps, local Atlanta TV stations, or wireless emergency alerts on your phone.

How Atlanta Responds When Snow or Ice Is Expected

Even a small winter system can trigger major preparations in the city. When snow or ice is forecast, you can expect:

• Pre-treatment of major roads and interstates (salt/brine) by GDOT and the City of Atlanta
• Possible early dismissal of schools in Atlanta Public Schools and nearby districts
• Flight delays or cancellations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Increased messaging from local officials about avoiding nonessential travel

Because Atlanta’s infrastructure and drivers are not accustomed to regular snow, even light wintry weather can cause backups and accidents, especially during rush hour.

What Atlanta Residents Should Do to Prepare

Even if this winter ends up mild, it helps to be ready for at least one snow or ice event.

Around Your Home

• Keep a basic emergency kit: flashlights, batteries, blankets, water, nonperishable food.
• Have a way to charge phones, such as a battery pack, in case of power outages.
• Protect pipes in colder snaps by insulating exposed pipes and letting faucets drip slightly during hard freezes.
• Keep sidewalks, driveways, and front steps clear when snow or ice occurs to reduce slip risks.

For Your Vehicle

• Maintain good tire tread and proper inflation.
• Keep windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
• Store an ice scraper/brush, small blanket, and basic emergency supplies in the car.
• If winter weather is forecast, fill your gas tank and avoid driving on untreated bridges and overpasses, which freeze first.

If roads become hazardous, local officials often recommend staying off the roads unless absolutely necessary. In Atlanta, that advice is worth following.

Tips for Visitors Wondering About Snow in Atlanta

If you’re visiting Atlanta this winter and hoping to see snow:

• Don’t count on it as a guarantee. It’s possible, especially in January or February, but far from certain.
• Pack for variable weather:
  • A medium-weight jacket
  • Layers (sweaters, long sleeves)
  • A waterproof outer layer or umbrella for rainy days
• Watch the forecast a week before your trip and again 1–2 days before arrival.
• If a winter event is expected:
  • Allow extra time to reach Atlanta airport
  • Confirm plans that involve driving in the evening or early morning
  • Check operating hours for any outdoor attractions

If snow does fall while you’re here, it may be a short-lived event, but it can create memorable views of Downtown, Midtown, and local parks like Piedmont Park and parts of the Atlanta BeltLine.

What to Look For in the Forecast

When checking whether Atlanta will see snow this winter, pay attention to:

• Temperature
  • Daytime highs near or below freezing (32°F / 0°C)
  • Overnight lows well below freezing
• Type of precipitation
  • Forecasts mentioning snow, a rain/snow mix, sleet, or freezing rain
• Official alerts
  • Winter Weather Advisory – Usually for lighter snow or ice that can still cause travel issues
  • Winter Storm Watch/Warning – Indicates more significant impacts are likely or expected

If you see these terms attached to an upcoming system, there is a real possibility of snow or ice in Atlanta.

Key Takeaways for Atlanta This Winter

• Will there be snow in Atlanta this winter?
  • Possibly, but not guaranteed. Most winters see at least a light event, though some have none.
• Most likely timing:
  • January and early February are typically the prime months.
• What’s more common than snow?
  • Cold rain, freezing rain, and black ice, which can be more disruptive than light snow.
• Best approach:
  • Assume mostly mild to cool conditions, but prepare for at least one winter weather event.
  • Stay informed through local forecasts and official alerts when cold, wet systems approach.

With realistic expectations and a little preparation, you’ll be ready for whatever winter brings to Atlanta—whether that’s sunshine, cold rain, or a rare blanket of snow over the city skyline.