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

March in Atlanta is when the city finally starts to shake off winter. Days get warmer, flowers start to bloom, and outdoor events pick up again. But it’s also a transition month, which means the weather can swing from chilly and gray to warm and sunny within a few days.

If you live in Atlanta, are visiting, or planning outdoor activities, understanding March weather in Atlanta helps you dress right, plan better, and avoid surprises.

Typical March Weather in Atlanta

Atlanta’s March weather is mild overall, with a mix of cool mornings, comfortable afternoons, and a few early spring storms.

Temperatures

Most years, you can expect:

• Average high: mid–60s °F (around 65–68°F)
• Average low: mid–40s °F (around 44–47°F)

On any given day in March:

• Cooler days may stay in the 50s°F, especially early in the month.
• Warmer days can reach into the 70s°F, and occasionally higher.
• Overnight temperatures can still drop into the upper 30s°F on colder nights.

Key takeaway: March in Atlanta usually feels like early spring during the day and late winter at night.

Rain, Storms, and Thunder in March

How Rainy Is March in Atlanta?

March is one of Atlanta’s wetter months. Rain is common, but it usually comes in periodic fronts and storms rather than an all-day drizzle every day.

Typical patterns include:

• Several rainy days spread across the month
• A mix of light showers, steady rain, and occasional heavy downpours
• Cloudy, damp stretches followed by bright, sunny days

You’ll want to keep a rain jacket or small umbrella handy, especially if you walk, bike, or use MARTA frequently.

Thunderstorms and Severe Weather

March is the start of Atlanta’s spring severe weather season. While not every year is intense, it’s common to see:

• Thunderstorms with lightning and heavy rain
• Gusty winds during passing fronts
• Brief downpours that can cause minor street flooding in low-lying spots

On some spring days, the National Weather Service may issue:

• Severe thunderstorm watches or warnings
• Tornado watches, and less often, warnings

If you live in or are visiting Atlanta in March, it’s smart to:

• Enable wireless emergency alerts on your phone
• Follow local TV or radio weather updates
• Keep an eye on conditions if you’re driving on I‑285, I‑75, I‑85, or GA‑400 during storms

Humidity and “Feel” of the Air

Compared to the sticky summer months, March does not usually feel oppressive, but you can still notice:

• Slight humidity increases on warmer or rainy days
• A damp chill on cool, cloudy mornings
• Crisp, comfortable air on sunny afternoons

Most people find March weather in Atlanta very comfortable for outdoor activities, especially when the sun is out.

Frost and Cold Snaps: Is Winter Really Over?

Even though March leans spring-like, winter is not completely gone in Atlanta.

• You can still see late-season cold snaps, especially early in the month.
• A light frost is still possible, mainly in the first half of March.
• Hard freezes become less common, but they’re not impossible.

If you’re gardening, planting, or caring for delicate plants:

• Many Atlanta residents wait until late March or early April before putting sensitive plants in the ground.
• If a cold snap is forecast, people often cover outdoor plants overnight to protect them.

Daylight and Sunrise/Sunset in March

March brings noticeably longer days in Atlanta.

• Early March:
  • Sunrise: roughly around 7:00 AM
  • Sunset: roughly around 6:30 PM
• After Daylight Saving Time begins (second Sunday in March), clocks “spring forward” one hour:
  • Sunrise is later on the clock, around 7:30+ AM
  • Sunset shifts to around 7:30+ PM, giving brighter evenings

This extra evening light encourages:

• After-work walks on the BeltLine
• Evening outings in Midtown, Downtown, and Buckhead
• Later outdoor practices and youth sports around the metro

Pollen, Allergies, and Spring Bloom

By March, Atlanta’s famous pollen season begins ramping up, especially in the latter part of the month.

Common patterns:

• Trees (like pine and oak) start producing pollen in late winter and early spring.
• By mid to late March, many Atlantans notice:
  • Yellow pollen dust on cars, sidewalks, and porches
  • More sniffling, sneezing, and itchy eyes among allergy-prone residents

Practical steps many locals take:

• Keep car windows closed during high-pollen days.
• Use air conditioning or fans instead of opening windows, especially at night.
• Rinse off outdoor surfaces or furniture if you use them regularly.

If you’re sensitive to pollen and visiting Atlanta in March, be aware that late March can already feel like full spring allergy season.

What to Wear in Atlanta in March

Because March weather swings between chilly and warm, layering is the most practical approach.

Clothing Tips for Locals and Visitors

Consider:

• Light to medium jacket or fleece for mornings and evenings
• Long sleeves or light sweaters that you can easily remove mid-day
• Short-sleeve shirts or breathable tops for warmer afternoons
• Comfortable jeans, chinos, or lightweight pants most days
• Sneakers or light waterproof shoes if you’ll be out in the rain

On unseasonably warm days, Atlantans are often comfortable in:

• Short sleeves
• Lightweight pants, skirts, or casual dresses

On cooler days, especially early in the month:

• A warmer jacket and closed-toe shoes are helpful.

Packing Guide for a March Trip to Atlanta

If you’re visiting Atlanta in March, pack for variety, not just for “spring” or “winter.”

Suggested Packing List

• ✅ Light to medium jacket
• ✅ Sweaters or hoodies (1–2)
• ✅ T-shirts or light tops (several)
• ✅ Jeans or casual pants
• ✅ Comfortable walking shoes
• ✅ Compact umbrella or rain jacket
• ✅ Sunglasses and sunscreen for bright days
• ✅ Optional: light scarf or hat for early mornings

This setup covers downtown sightseeing, business meetings, casual dining, and outdoor exploring without overpacking.

Outdoor Activities in March: What Works Best

March is often one of the best months to enjoy being outside in Atlanta, as long as you plan around rain and pollen.

Popular Things to Do in March Weather

Many residents and visitors take advantage of:

• Atlanta BeltLine walks and bike rides, especially on the Eastside Trail
• Strolling through Piedmont Park as trees and flowers start to bloom
• Visiting Atlanta Botanical Garden to see early spring plants
• Exploring Zoo Atlanta, Grant Park, or neighborhood festivals
• Watching early-season games for local colleges or youth sports

To make the most of March weather:

• Check the forecast the morning of your outing.
• Avoid scheduling long outdoor events during strong storm predictions.
• Bring layers and a light rain option, even if the day starts sunny.

Driving and Commuting in March Weather

Atlanta traffic is a challenge year-round, and March weather can add a layer of complexity, especially on rainy or stormy days.

Rain and Traffic

Heavy March rain can lead to:

• Reduced visibility on interstates like I‑20, I‑75, I‑85, and I‑285
• Standing water in low areas and on exit ramps
• Slower commutes during morning and evening rush hours

Common local habits:

• Leaving earlier on days with heavy rain in the forecast
• Using MARTA (rail and bus) to avoid stressful driving during storms
• Allowing extra time when crossing major interchanges such as the Downtown Connector

Staying Informed: Local Weather Resources

If you’re in Atlanta in March, you have several local ways to stay updated on changing conditions:

• National Weather Service – Peachtree City Office
  • Monitors weather for the Atlanta metro and North Georgia
  • Location: 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
• County and City Emergency Alerts
  • Fulton County and the City of Atlanta offer emergency and weather alert systems you can sign up for online.

On a daily basis, many Atlantans rely on:

• Local TV stations’ meteorologists
• Smartphone weather apps with radar and severe weather alerts
• Wireless emergency alerts (built into most modern phones)

For March, paying attention to storm days and temperature swings helps you decide how to dress and whether to adjust outdoor or travel plans.

Quick Reference: March Weather Snapshot for Atlanta

In practical terms, March weather in Atlanta is changeable but generally pleasant. Expect mild to cool mornings, comfortable afternoons, some rainy and stormy periods, and a noticeable jump in pollen as spring takes hold. If you plan around the rain and layer your clothing, March is one of the most enjoyable months to be out and about in Atlanta.