What to Expect From Atlanta’s Weather in February

Thinking about what to wear, plan, or pack for Atlanta in February? February is one of the city’s most changeable months: you can get crisp, sunny afternoons one week and a raw, rainy chill the next.

Here’s a clear look at typical February weather in Atlanta, Georgia, plus what it means for your daily routine, travel plans, and outdoor activities.

Typical February Temperatures in Atlanta

February usually feels like the transition from winter to early spring in Atlanta.

Typical temperature ranges:

Key takeaway:
Expect cool to mild days and chilly nights, with a few colder mornings mixed in. Heavy winter gear is usually not necessary, but you will want layers and a warm coat, especially if you’re out early or late.

Rain, Storms, and the Occasional Wintry Mix

February is often damp in Atlanta.

• Rain is common. You can expect several rainy days during the month, ranging from light drizzle to steady showers.
• Thunderstorms can happen. Early-season thunderstorms sometimes roll through, especially later in the month, but they are typically brief.
• Snow and ice are rare but possible.
  • Atlanta does sometimes see a light snow or wintry mix in February.
  • When it happens, even a small amount can disrupt roads, especially bridges and overpasses.

Because winter weather is less frequent here, Atlanta’s roadways and drivers are not as accustomed to snow and ice as in colder regions. That means even minor events can cause slow traffic, delays, and closures.

Daylight and Overall Feel

By February, Atlanta is starting to feel a bit more alive after the darkest part of winter.

• Daylight: Days are getting longer, with more usable afternoon light for errands, walking, and outdoor activities.
• Sun vs. clouds: You’ll experience a mix of sunny, blue-sky days and gray, overcast days. Sun can make a 50-degree day feel much warmer.
• Wind: Light to moderate wind is common; breezy days can make temps feel cooler than the thermometer shows.

Practical tip: On sunny, calm days you may be comfortable in a light jacket by mid-afternoon. Cloudy, windy days with the same air temperature can feel significantly colder.

Humidity and Comfort Level

Atlanta is known for humid summers, but February humidity is usually moderate.

• Air often feels cool and a bit damp, especially in the mornings.
• Indoor heating and changing air masses can make some people feel dry skin or chapped lips, so basic skin and lip care can be useful.
• Foggy mornings can occur, especially near low-lying or wooded areas and close to rivers or streams.

Overall, outdoor comfort is reasonable for walking, light exercise, and sightseeing, as long as you’re dressed for cool, variable weather.

What to Wear in Atlanta in February

Packing or planning your wardrobe? Think layered, flexible outfits that can adapt to changing conditions throughout the day.

Core clothing ideas:

• Outer layers
  • Medium-weight coat or insulated jacket
  • Water-resistant jacket or raincoat for wet days
• Middle layers
  • Sweaters, fleece, or light pullovers
  • Long-sleeve shirts or thin thermals on colder days
• Base layers
  • T-shirts or light tops for layering
• Accessories
  • Umbrella or compact rain poncho
  • Scarf, hat, and gloves for cold snaps or early-morning outings
  • Warm socks and closed-toe shoes; boots on rainy days

If you’re commuting on MARTA or walking around Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead, layering makes it easier to stay warm outside but avoid overheating indoors where heating is running.

Travel and Commuting Considerations

For people living in Atlanta or visiting in February, weather can affect how you get around.

Driving

• Rainy days:
  • Roads like the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85) and I‑285 can become slick and congested.
  • Allow extra time for heavier traffic and reduced visibility.
• Cold mornings:
  • Watch for patchy black ice on bridges and overpasses, especially after overnight rain followed by freezing temperatures.
• Wintry events:
  • If snow or ice is in the forecast, check local conditions before driving.
  • Schools and offices sometimes adjust schedules or close, which can affect traffic patterns.

Public Transit (MARTA)

MARTA rail and buses generally continue running in cool and rainy weather, but winter storms can cause adjustments.

For general assistance and service information, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) customer service line is typically available at:

• MARTA Customer Service: 404‑848‑5000

Check service updates before you head out, especially if freezing rain or snow has been mentioned in forecasts.

Outdoor Activities and Events in February

Despite the chill, February is still an active month in and around Atlanta.

Walking and Sightseeing

Neighborhoods like Midtown, Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, and areas around the BeltLine can be pleasant for walking on milder days.

• On sunny afternoons in the 50s or 60s, a light jacket is usually enough.
• On overcast or windy days, you’ll want a warmer coat and maybe a hat.

Parks and Trails

Popular outdoor spots such as:

• Piedmont Park (1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306)
• Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail
• Chastain Park (140 Chastain Park Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30342)

are often used year-round. Expect:

• Damp ground after rain, so waterproof shoes can help.
• Bare trees and a more wintery landscape, though some early-blooming plants may appear late in the month.

Sports and Exercise

Outdoor running, cycling, and workouts are common in February.

• Morning runs can feel quite cold; gloves and a hat are often helpful.
• Afternoon workouts are generally comfortable in layers, especially in the sun.

How February Weather Affects Daily Life in Atlanta

School and Work Schedules

Most days proceed normally, but winter weather alerts can bring changes:

• Snow or ice days:
  • Local school systems (such as Atlanta Public Schools and surrounding county districts) may close or delay start times.
  • Some offices in the city and metro area may shift to remote work temporarily.

Flights and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a major hub and is equipped to handle a range of weather, but:

• Thunderstorms and winter weather can still trigger delays or longer de-icing times.
• If you’re flying in or out in February, it’s wise to monitor flight status closely on days with rain, storms, or freezing temperatures.

Checking Local Weather and Alerts in Atlanta

Conditions can shift quickly in February, so it helps to rely on current, local information.

Useful local resources include:

• National Weather Service – Peachtree City Office
  • Provides forecasts and warnings for the Atlanta region.
• City of Atlanta and Fulton County alert systems
  • Many residents sign up for local emergency or severe weather alert messages.
• Local TV and radio weather updates focused specifically on metro Atlanta.

Staying aware of short-term changes—especially when temperatures hover near freezing—is important for safe driving and planning.

Quick Planning Checklist for February in Atlanta

Use this as a simple reference if you’re packing or planning your month:

• Clothing
  • Medium-weight coat or jacket
  • Sweaters and long sleeves
  • Hat, scarf, and gloves for colder spells
  • Comfortable, closed-toe shoes; rain-ready footwear
• Weather gear
  • Compact umbrella
  • Light rain jacket
• Daily planning
  • Check the daily forecast each morning, especially if driving long distances or using the interstates
  • Build in extra travel time on rainy or very cold mornings
  • Watch for winter weather advisories, even if snow and ice are not frequent

In summary, Atlanta weather in February is generally cool, often wet, and occasionally wintery, with a few surprisingly mild days that hint at spring. If you plan for layers, rain, and a bit of temperature swing, you’ll be well prepared to live in, visit, or navigate Atlanta during this month.