Weather in Atlanta, GA in November: What to Expect and How to Prepare
November in Atlanta, Georgia is the month when fall really settles in. The air turns crisp, trees around Piedmont Park, Grant Park, and neighborhoods across the city show off their best colors, and the lingering heat of summer finally fades.
If you live in Atlanta, are planning a trip, or just want to know what the weather in Atlanta in November is really like, this guide breaks it down in practical, local terms.
Typical November Weather in Atlanta
November is generally a cool, comfortable, and changing month in Atlanta.
- Average high temperatures: around 60–65°F
- Average low temperatures: around 40–45°F
- Overall feel: cool mornings and evenings, mild afternoons
- Humidity: lower than in summer, usually more comfortable
- Daylight: noticeably shorter days as winter approaches
You’ll often start the month with more mild, fall-like days, and end the month with days that can feel very close to winter, especially at night or early morning.
Temperature: Early November vs. Late November
November in Atlanta can feel like two different mini-seasons.
Early November (roughly Nov 1–15)
- Daytime highs: often in the mid to upper 60s°F
- Nighttime lows: typically in the mid 40s°F
- Many days are pleasant enough for outdoor activities with a light jacket.
- You might still get an occasional warmer day in the low 70s°F, especially at the beginning of the month.
Late November (roughly Nov 16–30)
- Daytime highs: more often in the mid 50s to low 60s°F
- Nighttime lows: regularly in the upper 30s to low 40s°F, with some colder nights
- This is when chillier mornings start becoming the norm.
- Shorter days mean it cools off earlier in the evening.
For locals, this is usually the time heavier coats, scarves, and layers leave the closet for the season.
Rain, Storms, and Wind in November
Atlanta’s weather pattern starts shifting from humid summer storms to a cool-season rain pattern in November.
Rainfall
- November is typically a moderately rainy month.
- You’ll see a mix of light showers, overcast days, and some sunny, dry stretches.
- All-day washouts are less common than in summer, but passing systems can still bring a solid rainy day or two.
It’s a good idea to keep a small umbrella or rain jacket handy, especially if you spend time walking around Downtown, Midtown, or near Georgia State and Georgia Tech campuses.
Thunderstorms and Severe Weather
- Strong thunderstorms are less frequent than in the summer, but not impossible.
- Occasionally, a cold front can bring gusty winds, periods of heavier rain, and a few rumbles of thunder.
- Widespread severe weather is not typical for November, but Atlanta residents know weather can change quickly.
When strong cold fronts move through the region, check local forecasts and notifications, especially if you’ll be on the road along I-75, I-85, or I-20.
Wind
- November days can be breezy, especially after a front passes through.
- Winds are usually manageable but can make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests, especially on cloudy days.
Does It Snow in Atlanta in November?
Snow in Atlanta in November is rare.
- Most years, you won’t see any snow at all in November.
- If anything does fall, it’s more likely to be a very light flurry or cold rain, and not something that sticks.
- Icy conditions are uncommon in November but can’t be fully ruled out during an unusually cold snap, especially overnight or early morning.
Locals typically do not prepare for winter weather impacts (like road ice or school closures) this early in the season, but it’s wise to keep an eye on forecasts if a strong cold front is expected.
What the Weather Feels Like Day-to-Day
Numbers don’t always tell the whole story. Here’s what living or visiting Atlanta in November tends to feel like:
- Mornings: cool or chilly, often in the 40s°F; a light coat or sweater is usually needed.
- Afternoons: often comfortable and mild, especially on sunny days, with temps in the 60s°F.
- Evenings: cool again; if you’re out at a game, concert, or outdoor event, you’ll want a jacket or layers.
- Indoors: most homes and businesses have heat on by late November, especially at night.
If you’re walking around Atlantic Station, BeltLine trails, or outdoor patios, expect to add or remove layers as the day goes on.
Daylight and Sunset Times in November
As Atlanta moves toward winter:
- Early November sunset: around 6:30 p.m. (before the time change)
- After the switch to Standard Time (usually the first weekend in November), sunset jumps earlier, closer to 5:30 p.m. and gradually even earlier by the end of the month.
This earlier sunset affects:
- Evening commutes: more driving in the dark on I-285 and major surface streets like Peachtree Street and Ponce de Leon Avenue.
- Outdoor plans: less late-afternoon daylight for parks, trails, or kids’ practices.
Planning errands, walks on the Atlanta BeltLine, or outdoor meetups earlier in the day can help you make the most of the remaining light.
How to Dress for Atlanta Weather in November
The key word for clothing in November in Atlanta: layers.
Clothing Tips
- Base layer: light shirt or long-sleeve top
- Mid-layer: sweater, fleece, or light hoodie
- Outer layer: medium-weight jacket or coat for mornings/evenings
- Bottoms: jeans, chinos, or thicker leggings are usually enough
- Shoes: closed-toe shoes or sneakers are practical for cooler mornings and possible rain
For locals heading to work in Downtown or Midtown offices, you’ll often see people in:
- A light-to-medium coat in the morning
- Just the shirt or sweater by mid-afternoon if the sun is out
For visitors, plan clothes you can easily add or remove as the temperature changes during the day.
Packing Checklist for Visitors in November
If you’re traveling to Atlanta in November, this simple checklist can help:
- Light to medium jacket or coat
- Sweaters or long-sleeve layers
- A compact umbrella or waterproof shell
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
- A scarf or light hat if you’re sensitive to cooler air
- One slightly warmer outfit in case of a colder-than-usual day
You probably won’t need heavy winter gear, but you’ll be glad to have some cozy layers for nighttime events or outdoor dining in areas like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, or West Midtown.
Outdoor Activities in Atlanta in November
November is often a good time to enjoy outdoor Atlanta without the intense heat and humidity of summer.
Popular options include:
- Walking or biking the Atlanta BeltLine: The cooler temps make long stretches more comfortable.
- Visiting Piedmont Park, Grant Park, or Freedom Park to see late fall foliage.
- Enjoying outdoor patios at restaurants in neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Midtown, and Decatur (bring a jacket for evenings).
- Attending football games (high school, college, or watching pro games at local bars) – nights can be chilly in the stands, so layer up.
If you’re planning a Thanksgiving visit, expect weather that’s generally cool and pleasant, with a chance of rain or a colder spell depending on the year.
Air Quality and Seasonal Allergies
November weather in Atlanta usually brings some relief from the intense spring and early fall pollen seasons, but a few factors are still worth noting:
- Ragweed and fall allergens may linger into early November, especially in dry stretches.
- Cooler air and less humidity can make the city feel crisper and clearer, especially on breezy days.
- Smoke from fireplaces or outdoor fire pits may be more noticeable in certain neighborhoods as temperatures drop.
For most people, November is an easier breathing month compared to spring, though individual experiences vary.
Staying Informed: Local Weather Resources
Because Atlanta’s weather can shift quickly, especially when cold fronts move through, it’s useful to check updated, day-of forecasts.
You can get reliable local weather information for Atlanta from:
- National Weather Service – Peachtree City Weather Forecast Office
4 Falcon Drive
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Phone: (770) 486-1133
Local TV and radio stations based in Atlanta also provide city-focused forecasts for neighborhoods and major traffic corridors, which is helpful if you commute across the metro area.
Travel and Driving Considerations in November
For most of November, roads in and around Atlanta are clear of snow and ice, but you should still:
- Watch for wet roads after rain, especially along busy highways such as I-75/85 (“The Connector”), GA-400, and I-20.
- Plan for heavier traffic around major travel times like Thanksgiving week, when visitors and residents crowd the airport and interstates.
- Be aware of earlier nightfall, which can affect visibility during the evening rush.
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport generally operates normally in November, though storms and low clouds can still cause occasional delays.
Quick November Weather Snapshot for Atlanta
Below is a simple reference to what you can typically expect:
| Aspect | What You Can Usually Expect in November in Atlanta |
|---|---|
| Average High Temp | Around 60–65°F |
| Average Low Temp | Around 40–45°F |
| Rain | Light to moderate rain on scattered days |
| Snow/Ice | Rare; most years have none |
| Humidity | Generally lower and more comfortable |
| Best Clothing | Layers: light sweater + jacket, closed shoes |
| Overall Feel | Cool mornings/evenings, mild afternoons, variable |
Overall, weather in Atlanta, GA in November is usually cool, comfortable, and changeable enough that planning to layer your clothing and check the forecast regularly is the smartest approach. Whether you’re commuting through the city, visiting family for Thanksgiving, or exploring Atlanta’s neighborhoods and parks, November’s climate is typically friendly to both indoor and outdoor plans with just a bit of preparation.