Atlanta Weather: What to Expect in Every Season

Wondering how the weather is in Atlanta, Georgia—whether you’re planning a visit, moving here, or just trying to plan your week? Atlanta’s weather is known for its hot, humid summers, mild winters, and unpredictable swings in between.

Below is a clear, practical guide to Atlanta’s climate month-by-month, what it feels like to live with it, and how to prepare for it.

Atlanta’s Weather at a Glance

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, which usually means:

• Long, hot, humid summers
• Short, generally mild winters
• Plenty of rain spread through the year
• Thunderstorms and occasional severe weather, especially in spring and summer

Here’s a simple snapshot of typical conditions:

These are general patterns—Atlanta can swing warmer or colder for short stretches.

How Is Atlanta Weather in Winter?

Months: December – February

Atlanta winters are usually short and relatively mild compared with much of the country, but they can still surprise you.

Temperature and Conditions

• Daytime highs often land in the 50s°F, with some days reaching the 60s°F.
• Nights can fall into the 30s°F, with occasional dips below freezing.
• Snow is rare, and when it does fall, it’s usually light and short-lived.
• Ice is more common than deep snow and can cause slick roads and closures.

When winter systems move through, even a little ice or snow can lead to school closures, flight delays, and traffic issues, especially on major routes like I‑75, I‑85, and I‑285 around Atlanta.

What Locals Pay Attention To

• Black ice on bridges and overpasses, especially in the early morning.
• Winter weather advisories from National Weather Service (NWS) Atlanta and local TV meteorologists.
• Possible changes to MARTA schedules or delays if weather turns icy.

Tip 👍: If you’re visiting in winter, pack layers—a light or medium jacket, long sleeves, and something warm for unexpectedly chilly evenings.

How Is Atlanta Weather in Spring?

Months: March – May

Spring in Atlanta is often considered one of the best times to be here. Temperatures are usually comfortable, and the city’s trees and gardens explode with color.

Temperature and Conditions

• Highs climb from the 60s°F in March to the 70s and low‑80s°F by May.
• Nights cool into the 40s and 50s°F.
• Rain is fairly frequent, with scattered showers and thunderstorms.
• Severe storms with strong winds, hail, or occasional tornadoes are possible, especially in March and April.

The Famous Atlanta Pollen Season

Atlanta’s spring is also known for very high pollen levels, especially from:

• Pine trees
• Oak trees
• Grasses and other plants

You’ll often see yellow pollen dust coating cars, sidewalks, and outdoor seating areas, particularly in neighborhoods with lots of trees like Buckhead, Decatur, and Virginia‑Highland.

Practical tips for spring in Atlanta:

• Expect pollen on outdoor surfaces; many residents rinse off porches, cars, and patio furniture frequently.
• If you’re sensitive to pollen, many locals:
  • Keep windows closed on high-pollen days.
  • Use air conditioning for filtration instead of opening windows.
• Carry a light jacket or umbrella—Atlanta can go from sunny to stormy quickly.

How Is Atlanta Weather in Summer?

Months: June – August (often extending into September)

Summer in Atlanta is hot, humid, and often feels warmer than the temperature suggests.

Temperature and Conditions

• Typical daytime highs are in the mid‑80s to low‑90s°F, with some days hotter.
• Humidity is usually high, making it feel “sticky” outside.
• Overnight lows often stay in the upper‑60s to 70s°F, which can feel warm and muggy.
• Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common, especially on hot days.

Thunderstorms can be brief but intense, with:

• Heavy rain
• Frequent lightning
• Gusty winds
• Localized flooding in low-lying or poorly drained areas

Heat and Daily Life in Atlanta

If you’re living in or visiting Atlanta in summer:

• Air conditioning is standard in homes, offices, hotels, and public buildings.
• Outdoor activities like walking the BeltLine, visiting Piedmont Park, or catching a game at Truist Park are more comfortable early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Many residents wear light, breathable fabrics and carry water when out and about.

Heat safety basics:

• Limit extended time in direct sun in the midday to late afternoon.
• Take breaks in shade or air‑conditioned areas.
• Stay hydrated, especially if using MARTA, walking in downtown or Midtown, or attending outdoor events.

How Is Atlanta Weather in Fall?

Months: September – November

Fall is often another favorite season in Atlanta. After the summer heat, the weather becomes more comfortable and less humid.

Temperature and Conditions

• Early fall (September) can still feel summer‑like, with highs in the 80s°F.
• By October and November, highs usually settle into the 60s and 70s°F, with cooler nights.
• Humidity drops, making the air feel crisper and more comfortable.
• Rain continues but is usually less frequent and less intense than in summer.

Fall Foliage and Outdoor Weather

• Trees across neighborhoods and parks like Grant Park, Piedmont Park, and areas near Kennesaw Mountain change color, usually in late October through early November.
• This is an ideal time for outdoor festivals, walking trails, and patio dining.

Tip 👍: You’ll want layers in fall—days can be warm in the sun, but mornings and evenings can feel chilly.

How Much Does It Rain in Atlanta?

Rain in Atlanta is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with a mix of light showers and intense downpours.

• Spring and summer bring more thunderstorms and heavier bursts of rain.
• Fall and winter often feature gentler, longer-lasting rains when systems move through.

When heavy rain hits:

• Low-lying areas and spots near creeks or rivers may see short-term flooding.
• Drivers watch for ponding on roads, especially along major corridors and underpasses.

Locals often check forecasts before major events downtown, commuting on I‑20, I‑75, I‑85, or planning outdoor time at Stone Mountain Park or along the Chattahoochee River.

Severe and Unusual Weather in Atlanta

Most Atlanta weather is routine, but there are occasional extremes.

Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes

• Severe thunderstorms can bring strong winds, hail, and frequent lightning.
• Tornado risk exists but is generally lower than in the heart of “Tornado Alley.” Most storms are brief and tracked closely by local meteorologists and the NWS Atlanta office.

Residents often stay informed through:

• Local TV weather coverage
• Weather apps with alert notifications
• NOAA Weather Radio in some homes and facilities

Winter Ice Events

• Mixed precipitation (rain, sleet, freezing rain) sometimes leads to ice on roads and trees.
• Even thin ice can cause major disruptions, because Atlanta is not built for long, harsh winters.

During these events, government agencies may:

• Treat or close certain roads
• Encourage staying off the roads if conditions are dangerous
• Delay or close schools and offices

Air Quality and “Feel” of the Weather

Beyond temperature and rain, people in Atlanta often care about air quality and comfort.

Humidity

Humidity can be high much of the year, especially:

• Late spring through early fall
• During and after summer storms

High humidity can make mild temperatures feel warmer and can influence how comfortable outdoor sports, runs, or walks feel.

Air Quality

Atlanta sometimes experiences reduced air quality, especially:

• On hot, stagnant summer days, when smog can build up
• During regional wildfire smoke events, which can drift from other areas

On days with poorer air quality, local news and weather services usually share alerts, and some residents choose to:

• Limit long, intense outdoor activities
• Spend more time in air‑conditioned indoor spaces

How the Weather Feels in Different Parts of the Atlanta Area

Within the broader Atlanta region, overall weather is similar, but small differences can appear:

• Urban core (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead): Can be slightly warmer due to the “urban heat island” effect—more pavement, buildings, and traffic.
• Suburbs and outer areas (e.g., Alpharetta, Marietta, Peachtree City): May feel a bit cooler at night, with slightly more noticeable breezes and less dense development.
• Higher elevation spots in the metro area: Occasionally a bit cooler than low-lying areas.

For most daily planning—what to wear, whether to bring an umbrella—these differences are minor, but you might notice them if you commute across the metro area.

Where Atlanta Residents Get Local Weather Information

For day‑to‑day weather in Atlanta, residents commonly rely on:

• Local TV stations and their weather teams
• Weather apps on phones
• Radio and in-car updates during commutes

Official weather warnings and forecasts for Atlanta are issued by the National Weather Service Atlanta office, located in Peachtree City, GA. While most people access its information through apps or local media, it is the primary official source for the region.

Quick Planning Guide: What to Pack and Expect by Season

Winter (Dec–Feb)

• Pack: Light to medium coat, sweaters, long pants, closed shoes.
• Expect: Mostly mild days, some cold nights, rare snow/ice.

Spring (Mar–May)

• Pack: Layers (light jacket, shirts), umbrella, comfortable walking shoes.
• Expect: Comfortable temps, frequent rain, intense pollen.

Summer (Jun–Aug, often Sep)

• Pack: Light, breathable clothing, hat, sunglasses, refillable water bottle.
• Expect: Hot, humid days, warm nights, afternoon thunderstorms.

Fall (Sep–Nov)

• Pack: Light jacket, layers, comfortable outdoor clothing.
• Expect: Pleasant days, cooler evenings, colorful foliage, lower humidity.

In practical terms, how is the weather in Atlanta?
It’s generally warm, humid, and green for much of the year, with short cold spells, occasional storms, and two particularly pleasant seasons—spring and fall—ideal for exploring the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and events.