Atlanta Weather in December: What to Expect and How to Prepare

December in Atlanta, GA brings the city into a true winter mode—but not the deep-freeze many people imagine when they think of winter. If you’re living in Atlanta, visiting for the holidays, or planning activities, understanding Atlanta’s December weather helps you pack smart, drive safely, and enjoy the season.

Overall: Is Atlanta Cold in December?

In December, Atlanta is generally cool to chilly, with a mix of sunny days, gray overcast stretches, and occasional wet, raw weather.

• Typical daytime highs: around the 50s°F (low to mid range)
• Typical nighttime lows: around the 30s°F to low 40s°F
• Cold snaps: Temperatures can briefly dip below freezing, especially overnight.
• Snow: Rare, but not impossible. Flurries or light snow can occur, but significant accumulation is uncommon in most Decembers.

You’re more likely to experience cold rain and chilly wind than heavy winter storms.

Temperature Patterns Through the Month

December often feels like a transition from mild fall to more consistent winter chill.

Early December

• Often still has some milder afternoons in the upper 50s or even low 60s°F.
• Nights can be cool but may hover near the low-to-mid 40s°F.
• Good time for outdoor walks on the BeltLine or at Piedmont Park with a light jacket.

Mid-December

• Temperatures trend cooler and more consistently winter-like.
• More days with highs stuck in the low-to-mid 50s°F, and nights around the upper 30s°F.
• More gray skies and light rain days are common.

Late December & Holidays

• Late in the month can bring the coldest air of December.
• Nighttime readings near or below freezing are more common.
• Holiday events at places like Atlanta Botanical Garden and Centennial Olympic Park often feel distinctly chilly, especially after sunset.

Atlanta December Weather at a Glance

Rain, Storms, and Winter Mix

Rain Is More Likely Than Snow

December is often wet but not stormy by summer standards.

• Expect periodic light to moderate rain, especially on cloudy, cooler days.
• Heavy, prolonged downpours are less common than in spring, but they can still happen.
• You might get several drizzly, overcast days in a row.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are less frequent in December but not unheard of:

• Any storms that do occur are usually short-lived and less intense than peak summer storms.
• Strong severe-weather outbreaks are uncommon but can happen in the broader Southeast this time of year, so occasional windy or stormy days are possible.

Snow, Sleet, and Ice

Snow is not a regular feature of Atlanta’s December, but the city’s history shows it can happen:

• Many Decembers pass with no measurable snow.
• When wintry weather does arrive, it’s often a mix of cold rain, sleet, or light freezing rain, rather than heavy snow.
• Even a small amount of ice can cause problems on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads.

If a winter-weather advisory is issued, local officials usually highlight it strongly, because even minor ice can disrupt travel across the Atlanta metro area.

What to Wear in Atlanta in December

For everyday life or a visit, plan for layering rather than heavy, single-layer winter gear.

Clothing Basics

• Outerwear: A medium-weight jacket or coat is usually enough for daytime; a warmer coat is helpful for nights and colder snaps.
• Layers: T-shirts or light shirts plus a sweater, fleece, or hoodie work well.
• Pants: Jeans, casual pants, or thicker leggings are usually comfortable.
• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes or boots are best; streets can be wet and chilly.

Add-Ons for Cold Snaps

On colder mornings, nights out, or if you run cold:

• Hat or beanie
• Gloves
• Scarf or neck gaiter
• Warm socks

These are especially useful if you’re walking through outdoor holiday lights, attending a night game, or taking MARTA and spending time at open platforms.

How December Weather Affects Daily Life in Atlanta

Commuting and Driving

• Morning frost: You may need a few extra minutes to defrost your windshield, especially in suburbs and higher elevations around the metro.
• Wet roads: Regular light rain can make traffic slower and more congested than usual.
• Rare ice events: Bridges and overpasses around interstates like I-75, I-85, I-20, and the Perimeter (I-285) can become slick quickly when temperatures dip below freezing.

If there’s any mention of freezing rain or sleet, it’s wise to:

• Check local forecasts before early-morning or late-night drives.
• Allow extra travel time and drive cautiously on ramps and elevated roadways.

Public Transit

MARTA rail and buses generally run on normal schedules in typical December weather.

• Light rain or cold temperatures rarely disrupt service.
• In unusual winter storms, service adjustments may occur, so checking same-day information is useful if snow or ice is in the forecast.

Outdoor Activities and Events in December

December is one of Atlanta’s biggest months for holiday events and outdoor attractions, even with cooler weather.

Popular Seasonal Activities

• Atlanta Botanical Garden – Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
  Evening temperatures can feel much colder than the stated number, especially with any breeze.
• Ice skating rinks set up in various parts of the city and suburbs.
• Holiday markets and festivals in neighborhoods like Atlantic Station or around Downtown and Midtown.
• College football events and bowls, often with tailgating outdoors before games.

Weather Tips for Enjoying Events

• Dress in layers; temperatures can drop quickly after sunset.
• Keep a compact umbrella or rain jacket handy for unexpected showers.
• For kids and older adults, ensure they have warm, dry outerwear if they’ll be standing or walking outside for long periods.

Indoor Plans for Chilly or Rainy Days

When December weather turns raw—cold, rainy, and windy—Atlanta has plenty of indoor options:

• Georgia Aquarium (Downtown)
• World of Coca-Cola (Downtown)
• High Museum of Art (Midtown)
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History (Druid Hills area)
• Large malls and shopping centers around the metro for holiday shopping.

Planning a mix of indoor and outdoor activities can help you adapt easily if the weather shifts.

Air Quality and Allergies in December

Compared to spring and summer, pollen levels are usually lower in December. However:

• Some people may still notice mild mold or dust-related irritation, especially on damp days.
• Air quality generally tends to be acceptable for most people, though occasional cold, calm days can hold pollutants closer to the ground in urban areas.

Anyone with specific health concerns may choose to check daily air quality and pollen updates before strenuous outdoor activities.

Checking Local Weather and Alerts in Atlanta

For the most accurate and localized Atlanta December weather day-to-day, it’s helpful to stay tuned to local sources:

• National Weather Service – Peachtree City Office
  Provides forecasts and alerts that cover the Atlanta metro.

  • Address: 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
  • Public forecast information is available online and via weather radio.

• Local TV and radio outlets in Atlanta
  Typically offer frequent updates on any winter weather potential, including timing of rain and temperature drops.

• NOAA Weather Radio
  Weather radios programmed for the Atlanta area can provide tone alerts for winter weather advisories, watches, and warnings.

These resources are especially useful when a potential winter mix or sudden cold front is expected.

Practical Packing Checklist for December in Atlanta

If you’re visiting Atlanta or organizing your own seasonal wardrobe, this simple checklist works well for most people:

• ✅ Medium-weight winter coat
• ✅ Sweaters or fleeces for layering
• ✅ Long-sleeve shirts and base layers
• ✅ Jeans or warm pants/leggings
• ✅ Closed-toe shoes or boots (preferably water-resistant)
• ✅ Compact umbrella or waterproof jacket
• ✅ Hat, gloves, scarf for colder evenings
• ✅ Reusable water bottle (heated indoor spaces can feel dry)

This setup keeps you comfortable whether it’s a mild 60°F afternoon or a brisk, wet 40°F evening.

Overall, Atlanta’s December weather is cool, often damp, and occasionally cold, but rarely extreme. With the right layers, a bit of rain gear, and an eye on local forecasts, you can comfortably navigate daily routines, holiday travel, and festive events across the city and metro area.