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

Planning to be in Atlanta in December—whether you live here, are visiting for the holidays, or just comparing winter climates? December in Atlanta brings mild winter weather by national standards, but it can still surprise you with big temperature swings and the occasional cold snap.

This guide walks through typical December temperatures, rain and storm patterns, what to pack and wear, and how Atlanta’s winter weather affects travel, events, and daily life.

Overview: Is December Cold in Atlanta?

Compared with many U.S. cities, Atlanta’s December weather is relatively mild, but it’s not “shorts in winter” weather most days.

You can expect:

• Cool to chilly days
• Cold nights, especially late in the month
• Frequent cloudy or rainy days
• Rare but possible frost, ice, or light snow

For most people, December in Atlanta feels like true winter, just without the long stretches of deep freeze that are common farther north.

Typical December Temperatures in Atlanta

Here’s a simple look at what temperatures are usually like in Atlanta during December:

Key takeaway: You’ll usually need a jacket or coat most days, and heavier layers at night, especially if you’re out late or up early.

Rain, Clouds, and Storms in December

December is part of Atlanta’s cool-season wet period, so rain is fairly common.

How rainy is December?

• Expect several days of rain spread through the month.
• Showers may be light and steady or come in short, heavier bursts.
• Long, all-day soaking rains can occur when large weather systems move through.

You’ll often see overcast or mostly cloudy skies, particularly around storm systems. The city still gets sunny days, but you should plan for gray, damp stretches too.

Thunderstorms and severe weather

Thunderstorms are less common in December than in spring or summer, but they can still happen:

• A few winter fronts can bring gusty winds and thunderstorms.
• On rare occasions, strong storms may cause isolated power outages or downed branches.

If you’re spending time around Midtown, Downtown, or Buckhead and storms are in the forecast, it’s wise to keep an umbrella or rain jacket handy and allow extra time for traffic.

Snow, Ice, and “Winter Weather Events”

Many people wonder: Does it snow in Atlanta in December?

Snow in December

• Light snow is possible but not guaranteed.
• When it does snow, it’s often brief and light, with limited accumulation.
• Occasionally, a colder system can bring a dusting to a couple of inches, mainly on grassy or elevated surfaces.

Snow that sticks on major roads is less common but can happen, especially in colder parts of North Fulton, Cobb, or higher elevations around the metro.

Ice and freezing rain

Ice is often a bigger concern than snow in Atlanta:

• When cold air is shallow and moisture moves in, you may see freezing rain or sleet.
• This can lead to slick bridges and overpasses, black ice, and hazardous driving conditions.

Even a thin layer of ice can significantly affect travel on interstates like I‑75, I‑85, I‑20, and I‑285.

Daylight and Wind: How It Actually Feels

Even when the numbers don’t look that cold, December can feel cooler than you expect.

Shorter days

• December has some of the shortest daylight hours of the year.
• Expect early sunsets, typically before dinnertime.
• Evening commutes in Downtown Atlanta, Sandy Springs, or Decatur will almost always be after dark.

Short days can make temperatures feel more wintry, especially if you’re out for evening events or holiday activities.

Wind chill

• A moderate breeze can make 45–50°F feel notably cooler.
• Open areas like Piedmont Park, the BeltLine, or rooftop venues can feel chilly, especially after sunset.
• When cold fronts move through, windy conditions may make a heavy coat, hat, and gloves feel more necessary than the thermometer alone suggests.

What to Wear in Atlanta in December

Packing or dressing for Atlanta’s December weather is all about layers and flexibility.

Everyday clothing tips

Consider building outfits around:

• Base layers: T‑shirt or long-sleeve shirt
• Middle layers: Sweater, sweatshirt, or light fleece
• Outer layer: Medium to heavy jacket or coat

Helpful items:

• Jeans or heavier pants (shorts are rarely comfortable all day)
• Closed-toe shoes or boots
• A rain jacket or umbrella for wetter days
• Scarf, hat, and light gloves, especially if you’re out at night

Going out at night

If you’re heading to holiday shows at the Fox Theatre, dinner in Inman Park, or events around Ponce City Market:

• Plan for temperatures dropping quickly after sunset.
• A slightly warmer coat than you think you need is usually a good idea.
• For outdoor patios or rooftop bars, a heavier coat and layers keep you much more comfortable.

How December Weather Affects Getting Around Atlanta

Driving and traffic

For most days:

• Roads are just wet, not snowy.
• You may see heavier traffic when it’s raining, especially on major interstates and surface streets around Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead.

On rare winter weather days:

• Even small amounts of ice or snow can slow traffic significantly.
• Bridges, ramps, and overpasses (for example along the Downtown Connector) freeze before regular road surfaces.
• Local agencies may treat or sand roads, but conditions can still be difficult until temperatures rise.

Public transit (MARTA)

MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) generally operates through winter weather, but service can be adjusted for safety.

Main locations include:

• MARTA Headquarters: 2424 Piedmont Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
• MARTA Customer Service: 404‑848‑5000

If snow or ice is in the forecast, check for service updates before you:

• Ride trains from stations like Five Points, North Avenue, or Lindbergh Center
• Use MARTA buses, which may have modified routes or delays on icy days

December Weather and Outdoor Activities in Atlanta

December doesn’t shut down Atlanta’s outdoor life—it just changes it.

Outdoor attractions

You can usually still enjoy:

• Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail walks and bike rides on mild days
• Piedmont Park strolls and dog walks
• Zoo visits at Zoo Atlanta on quieter, cooler days
• Garden events at Atlanta Botanical Garden, especially holiday light displays

Dress in layers, and bring a warm coat and gloves for evenings, particularly at holiday events after dark.

Exercise and recreation

For runners, cyclists, or walkers:

• Mornings can be cold (30s to low 40s°F), so start with gloves and a hat.
• Midday workouts are usually more comfortable, especially on sunny days.
• Watch for slippery leaves, wet sidewalks, and possible black ice during cold, clear mornings.

Health, Comfort, and Indoor Climate

Without giving medical advice, there are a few general comfort issues many Atlanta residents notice in December:

• Dry indoor air: Heating systems in homes, offices, and apartments across Fulton and DeKalb counties can make indoor air feel dry.
• Temperature swings: You may go from chilly outdoor temps to warm, heated interiors many times a day (car, office, home, shops).
• Cold floors and drafts: Older homes and rentals, especially in neighborhoods like Grant Park or West End, may feel cooler near windows and doors.

People often use simple measures like:

• Wearing slippers or socks at home
• Keeping a light layer nearby for indoor temperature variations
• Adjusting home thermostats slightly lower at night with extra blankets for comfort

Holiday Travel and Events in December Weather

Atlanta’s December calendar is full of holiday travel and local events, from festivals to performances.

Airport travel (Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport)

Atlanta’s main airport:

• Address: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
• General information phone: 800‑897‑1910

December weather can affect:

• Flight delays during strong rainstorms or on rare icy days
• Ground transportation times (rental car centers, rideshare, MARTA to the airport)

Allow extra time if a major storm system is moving through the Southeast.

Local holiday activities

Outdoor or partly outdoor events—such as:

• Holiday lights at attractions around the city
• Outdoor markets or festivals
• Tree lightings and neighborhood events

are usually held as scheduled, but may feel cold, breezy, or damp, especially at night. Check event information if severe weather or winter precipitation is expected.

Practical Tips for Dealing with December Weather in Atlanta

Here are some quick, Atlanta-specific tips to make December easier:

• Check the daily forecast 📱
  Atlanta weather can swing from a near-60°F afternoon to a hard freeze the next morning. Look at both highs and lows, plus rain chances and wind.

• Plan for layers at work and school
  Office buildings in Downtown and Midtown can vary a lot in temperature. Kids and adults often feel most comfortable with a light sweater plus a jacket they can remove indoors.

• Keep an umbrella and light jacket in your car
  Sudden showers are common with passing fronts.

• Prepare for the rare ice day
  If a winter storm warning or advisory is issued, consider rescheduling non-essential trips and giving yourself extra time for essential travel.

• Monitor local information
  For broader emergency or severe weather updates, the City of Atlanta and Fulton County emergency management offices provide guidance and alerts that are specific to the metro area.

In summary, Atlanta weather in December is typically cool, occasionally cold, and often damp, with more rain than snow and only rare winter storms. With a versatile wardrobe, an eye on daily forecasts, and realistic expectations about temperature swings, you can navigate Atlanta comfortably throughout the month.