Atlanta, Georgia December Weather: What to Expect and How to Prepare

December in Atlanta, Georgia usually feels like a cool, sometimes damp early winter more than a deep freeze. If you’re spending the holidays in the city, you’ll want to be ready for mild afternoons, chilly mornings, and the occasional cold snap rather than constant snow and ice.

Below is a practical guide to Atlanta December weather, what it’s really like day to day, and how to dress, plan activities, and stay safe on the roads and outdoors.

Typical December Weather in Atlanta

December marks the start of meteorological winter in Atlanta, but conditions stay relatively moderate compared to much of the country.

Typical December patterns in Atlanta:

• High temperatures: Often in the low to mid-50s°F during the daytime
• Low temperatures: Commonly in the mid-30s°F at night, sometimes dipping below freezing
• Precipitation: December is usually more rainy than snowy
• Snow and ice: Possible but not common; most winters see little or none
• Humidity: Can feel damp and chilly, especially on cloudy or rainy days

How it feels day to day

You can often step outside mid-afternoon in a light to medium jacket, but you’ll want layers ready for cooler evenings. Days may start off with frost on car windshields, warm to a comfortable cool in the afternoon, then turn brisk again after sunset.

Wind can make some days feel colder than the thermometer suggests, especially in more open parts of the city or near high-rise corridors in Downtown and Midtown.

Temperature Trends: Mornings, Afternoons, and Evenings

While exact numbers vary year to year, December temperatures in Atlanta follow a consistent daily rhythm.

Morning conditions

• Common range: Low to upper 30s°F
• Often frosty in suburban areas and shaded neighborhoods
• You may see thin ice on windshields or small puddles on the coldest mornings

Afternoon conditions

• Common range: Around the 50s°F, occasionally upper 40s°F or reaching near 60°F on milder days
• Many days feel comfortable for light outdoor activities in a sweater or jacket
• Cloudy, rainy days can feel damp and raw even when the temperature is in the 40s or 50s

Evening and night conditions

• Temperatures slide back into the 30s°F to low 40s°F
• Outdoor dining can be comfortable with heaters and coats, but you’ll want warm layers if you’re walking around Downtown, Midtown, or along the Atlanta BeltLine after dark

Rain, Snow, and Storms in December

Rain

December is typically a wet month in Atlanta:

• Expect occasional showers or longer, steady rain
• Rain can move in quickly with passing systems, especially cold fronts
• Roads, including I-75, I-85, and I-285, can become slick during frequent on-and-off showers

Keeping a compact umbrella or water-resistant jacket nearby is usually a smart idea.

Snow and ice

Snow is possible but not a regular December event:

• Light flurries or brief wintry mix can occur, more often in the northern suburbs or higher elevations just outside the city
• Major snowstorms are rare, but even a small amount of snow or ice can cause significant traffic disruptions

When temperatures hover near freezing and rain is in the forecast, Atlanta residents pay close attention to the possibility of:

• Black ice on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads
• Freezing rain or sleet, which can be more problematic than snow

Thunderstorms and severe weather

Strong thunderstorms are more common in spring and summer, but winter storm systems can still bring:

• Gusty winds
• Heavy downpours
• Rapid temperature changes

It’s helpful to monitor local updates when stronger systems move through.

Daylight and Sun: How Dark Does It Get?

December in Atlanta brings shorter days and longer nights, which can affect commuting, outdoor plans, and mood.

Typical December patterns:

• Sunrise: Usually around 7:30 a.m.
• Sunset: Often close to 5:30 p.m.

That means many people drive to or from work in the dark, especially if you commute along crowded routes like Peachtree Street, the Downtown Connector, or GA-400.

Cloudy and rainy days can feel extra dim, so neighborhoods with good street lighting and well-maintained sidewalks can be more comfortable for evening walks or errands.

What to Wear in Atlanta in December

Packing or dressing for Atlanta in December is all about layers and versatility.

Everyday clothing tips

Consider building outfits around:

• Base layer:
  • Light long-sleeve shirt or breathable top
• Middle layer:
  • Sweater, fleece, or light sweatshirt
• Outer layer:
  • Medium-weight coat or jacket, ideally water-resistant or with a hood

Helpful extras:

• Scarf, hat, and gloves for early mornings or late nights, especially if waiting for MARTA or walking between neighborhoods
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes or boots; water-resistant styles are useful on rainy days
• Umbrella or rain jacket for passing showers

For evenings out and events

Atlanta has plenty of December events—holiday shows at the Fox Theatre, games at State Farm Arena, outdoor activities at Atlantic Station, and lights displays at Zoo Atlanta or the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

For these outings:

• Dress in layers so you can shed a coat indoors
• Carry a small umbrella for walking between parking, transit, and venues
• Plan for colder temperatures after dark, even if the afternoon felt mild

Outdoor Activities in Atlanta in December

Even in winter, Atlanta’s December weather usually allows for plenty of time outdoors, especially on dry, slightly milder days.

Popular outdoor options

• Atlanta BeltLine: Great for walking, jogging, and biking on cool, crisp days
• Piedmont Park: Winter walks, dog park visits, and casual sports are common
• Stone Mountain Park (just outside city limits): Hiking on clearer days with good visibility
• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Cooler air and lower humidity can make walking the trails comfortable with proper layers

When planning outdoor time:

• Check the forecast for rain chances and wind chill
• Bring layers in case temperatures drop faster than expected in the late afternoon
• Wear non-slip shoes if paths are damp or muddy after rain

Driving and Commuting in December Weather

Atlanta’s road network is busy year-round, and December weather can add an extra challenge—especially during holiday travel periods.

Rainy day driving

On wet December days:

• Allow extra stopping distance on I-20, I-75/85, I-285, and surface streets
• Watch for ponding or slick spots, particularly in low-lying areas and near construction zones
• Turn on headlights in rain and low visibility conditions

Cold snaps and potential ice

Even modest winter weather can lead to road closures and delays, especially on:

• Bridges and overpasses, which freeze before the rest of the roadway
• Shaded residential streets or hilly neighborhoods

When a cold snap is predicted with moisture in the forecast:

• Check local alerts from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
• Consider adjusting travel times to avoid early morning or late night driving in potential icy conditions

Staying Informed: Local Weather Resources

For up-to-date conditions and December forecasts in Atlanta, it’s helpful to rely on local weather and traffic sources.

Key agencies and resources

• City of Atlanta Government

  • City Hall: 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Main information line: 404-330-6000
  • Shares updates on city operations, closures, and emergency notices

• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)

  • Address: One Georgia Center, 600 West Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
  • General phone: 404-631-1990
  • Provides information on road conditions, lane closures, and winter weather responses

• Local weather broadcasts and apps

  • Atlanta-based TV and radio stations often offer neighborhood-level forecasts, school closure updates, and traffic conditions

For those relying on transit, MARTA provides service alerts that can be useful when rain or cold weather affects operations:

• Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)
  • Headquarters: 2424 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
  • Customer information line: 404-848-5000

Quick December Weather Snapshot for Atlanta

Below is a simple, high-level summary of what Atlanta residents and visitors typically experience in December:

Practical Planning Tips for December in Atlanta

To make the most of Atlanta’s December weather:

• ✅ Dress in layers so you can adapt from chilly mornings to milder afternoons
• ✅ Keep rain gear handy—an umbrella or light waterproof jacket is useful
• ✅ Check the forecast daily, especially if you’re driving early or late in the day
• ✅ Allow extra travel time during rain or any potential wintry weather
• ✅ Plan outdoor activities for clearer, drier days and have an indoor backup

With realistic expectations—cool, sometimes wet, but rarely severe—Atlanta’s December weather is manageable and often pleasant enough for exploring neighborhoods, attending holiday events, and enjoying both indoor and outdoor attractions across the city.