February Weather in Atlanta: What to Expect and How to Prepare
If you’re planning for February in Atlanta, you’re looking at one of the city’s most changeable months. It can feel like late winter one week and early spring the next. Understanding typical February weather in Atlanta helps you pack correctly, plan events, and know what to expect day-to-day.
Overview: Atlanta Weather in February
February in Atlanta is generally cool and damp, with a real mix of days:
- Typical daytime highs: around the mid‑50s to low 60s°F
- Typical nighttime lows: often in the mid‑30s to low 40s°F
- Feel of the month: early spring hints mixed with winter chill
- Precipitation: frequent rain, occasional storms, and rare snow or ice
You’ll often experience:
- A few warm, sunny days where a light jacket is enough
- Some cold snaps with frost and biting wind
- Periodic rainy stretches that can last a day or more
Atlanta’s February weather rarely stays in one mood for long, so layering is your best friend.
Temperature: How Cold Is Atlanta in February?
Daytime Temperatures
Most February afternoons in Atlanta feel cool to mild:
- Many days warm into the 50s°F
- Warmer periods can push temperatures into the 60s°F, and occasionally higher
- On colder days, it can stay stuck in the 40s°F, especially with clouds and wind
If you’re walking around Downtown, Midtown, or the BeltLine, you’ll generally be comfortable with:
- A light to medium jacket
- A sweater or long-sleeve layer underneath
Nighttime & Early Morning
Overnight, temperatures often dip into the 30s°F:
- Frost on cars and lawns is common in the suburbs and higher elevations around the metro
- In-town areas like Virginia-Highland, Grant Park, and Inman Park may stay a little milder but still chilly
For early morning commutes or late-night outings:
- Expect to need a heavier coat or at least a good insulated jacket
- Gloves and a hat are helpful on colder mornings, especially if you’re waiting for MARTA or walking to a parking garage
Rain, Storms, and Rare Wintry Weather
Rain Is More Likely Than Snow
February is one of Atlanta’s wetter months, and rain is much more common than snow.
Typical patterns:
- Several rainy days during the month
- Showers can be light and misty or heavy downpours
- Storms sometimes pass through with thunder, lightning, and gusty winds
An umbrella or water-resistant jacket is useful to keep handy in your car, bag, or office.
Snow and Ice: Can It Happen in February?
Snow and ice in Atlanta are not guaranteed, but they are possible in February.
You may see:
- A light dusting of snow that melts quickly
- A mix of cold rain, sleet, or freezing rain during stronger cold snaps
- Occasional wintry events that can cause slick roads, especially bridges and overpasses
When that rare winter weather threat pops up, local officials and news stations tend to emphasize:
- Staying off the roads if ice is expected
- Leaving extra time for your commute
- Watching for black ice in the early morning, especially in shaded and elevated areas
February Weather at a Glance
Typical February Weather in Atlanta
| Feature | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| Average daytime feel | Cool to mild (often 50s–60s°F) |
| Average nighttime | Chilly (often 30s–40s°F) |
| Precipitation | Frequent rain; occasional storms |
| Snow/ice | Possible but uncommon; usually short-lived |
| Humidity | Moderate, can feel damp on rainy, cold days |
| Wind | Light to breezy; can feel colder than it is |
Use this as a general guide, not a precise forecast—individual days can differ quite a bit.
What to Wear in Atlanta in February
Everyday Clothing
Think in layers so you can adjust to swings in temperature:
- Base layer: T‑shirts, long-sleeve shirts, light thermals on colder days
- Middle layer: Sweaters, sweatshirts, or light fleece
- Outer layer:
- Light jacket or windbreaker for milder days
- Medium to heavier coat for early mornings, nights, and cold snaps
For walking around Piedmont Park, the BeltLine, or Centennial Olympic Park, you’ll be most comfortable if you can add or remove layers as the day warms up or cools down.
Footwear
Because of frequent rain:
- Closed-toe shoes are recommended
- Water-resistant boots or sneakers can help on wet days
- If you’re commuting or going to events, avoid shoes that soak through easily, especially during storms
Accessories
A few small items go a long way in Atlanta February weather:
- Umbrella or hooded jacket for pop-up showers
- Scarf, hat, gloves for colder mornings or nights
- Sunglasses for bright, clear days (even cold ones can be sunny)
How February Weather Affects Daily Life in Atlanta
Commuting and Driving
For Atlanta drivers, February can mean:
- Wet roads and reduced visibility during rain
- Occasional patchy fog in the early morning
- Rare but significant ice hazards during winter events
Tips:
- Leave extra time on rainy or stormy mornings
- Watch for standing water on interstates like I‑75, I‑85, and I‑285
- Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, and neighborhood hills during cold, wet periods
If conditions get serious, you may hear updates from:
- City of Atlanta and Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) about road conditions, closures, or treatment of major routes
Walking, Biking, and Outdoor Activities
February doesn’t shut down outdoor life in Atlanta. You’ll still see people out:
- Walking the Atlanta BeltLine
- Visiting parks like Piedmont Park or Grant Park
- Running or biking on milder days
Plan around:
- Warm layers for early morning runs or walks
- A rain jacket and quick-drying clothes if you’re caught in showers
- Checking the day’s forecast before committing to long outdoor activities
Events, Travel, and Tourism in February
Visiting Atlanta in February
If you’re flying into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport or visiting from colder states, February often feels relatively mild, though not quite springlike yet.
Things to keep in mind:
- Pack both cool-weather clothes and a couple of lighter outfits for warmer days
- Expect some combination of cloudy, rainy, and sunny days
- Indoor attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and museums are great backup plans for rainy days
Outdoor Events and Sports
You may encounter:
- Early-season college baseball or softball games
- Outdoor markets or neighborhood events on milder weekends
For these, it’s smart to bring:
- A warm jacket, even if the day starts sunny
- A small umbrella or poncho, just in case
Health and Comfort Considerations
February weather in Atlanta can affect how you feel day to day:
- Cold, damp conditions can feel more uncomfortable than the temperature alone suggests
- Indoor heating can lead to dry air, especially in homes, offices, and hotels
- Early tree pollen can occasionally start appearing toward the end of the month
Practical steps:
- Keep lip balm and hand lotion handy if you’re prone to dry skin
- Wear layers so you can transition from cool outdoors to heated indoor spaces comfortably
- If you’re sensitive to pollen, keep an eye on local daily pollen updates later in the month
Where Atlantans Can Check Reliable Local Weather Information
For up-to-date forecasts specific to Atlanta in February (and any other time of year), many residents rely on:
National Weather Service – Peachtree City Office
4 Falcon Drive
Peachtree City, GA 30269Local TV weather teams based in Atlanta, which often provide neighborhood-level forecasts, storm tracking, and school/road updates
You can also enable weather alerts on your phone for Fulton County and the City of Atlanta to get notified about:
- Severe thunderstorms
- Flooding concerns
- Winter weather advisories or warnings
Key Takeaways for Atlanta’s February Weather
- Expect variety: February in Atlanta swings between chilly, rainy days and milder, almost springlike afternoons.
- Rain is common; snow is not: Plan for wet weather, with rare but possible wintry mix events.
- Dress in layers: A flexible layering system is the easiest way to stay comfortable from morning to night.
- Stay weather-aware: Check forecasts regularly, especially if you’re commuting, attending events, or planning outdoor activities.
Understanding typical February weather in Atlanta helps you plan realistically: not deep-winter cold, not full spring, but a changeable, in-between season where being prepared makes a big difference.