Weather in Atlanta, Georgia Right Now: What to Expect Today

Checking the weather in Atlanta, Georgia right now is about more than just temperature. In Atlanta, the mix of heat, humidity, thunderstorms, and occasional cold snaps can affect how you dress, drive, exercise, and plan your day.

Below is a clear guide to what “right now” weather usually means in Atlanta, how to read local conditions, and what to watch for in each season so you can make quick, practical decisions.

How to Quickly Understand Atlanta’s Weather Right Now

Because real-time weather changes from hour to hour, you’ll want to focus on a few key details when you check conditions for Atlanta:

• Temperature and “feels like” (heat index or wind chill)
• Humidity (Atlanta is often humid, especially from late spring through early fall)
• Rain or thunderstorms (common on summer afternoons)
• Air quality (particularly in hot, stagnant air or during pollen season)
• Wind speed and direction (relevant for storms, outdoor events, and flights)

When you look at a current Atlanta weather report, you will usually see:

• Current temperature – what the air temperature is in degrees Fahrenheit.
• Feels like – adjusts for humidity (in heat) or wind (in cold).
• Conditions – clear, cloudy, light rain, thunderstorms, fog, etc.
• Chance of precipitation – how likely it is to rain in the near term.
• Hourly forecast – useful for timing outdoor plans, commuting, or events.

Typical Conditions in Atlanta by Time of Year

The exact weather in Atlanta right now depends on the season. Knowing the normal pattern helps you interpret current conditions more confidently.

Winter (December–February)

Winters in Atlanta are generally mild but changeable.

• Temperatures often range from the 40s to 50s°F during the day, cooler at night.
• Freezing temperatures and light freezes are possible, especially overnight.
• Snow is uncommon but not impossible. When it does happen, even small amounts can disrupt roads and public transit.
• Cold, clear days can switch quickly to chilly rain, so layers are useful.

If the weather right now is calling for freezing rain or a wintry mix, expect:

• Icy bridges and overpasses on major routes like the Downtown Connector (I‑75/I‑85) and I‑285.
• Delays or adjustments for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport operations.

Spring (March–May)

Spring in Atlanta is often pleasant but active, with changing temperatures and frequent rain.

• Temperatures commonly sit in the 60s to 70s°F, but warm spells can push into the 80s.
• Thunderstorms become more frequent, sometimes strong.
• Pollen levels, especially tree pollen, can be very high and are often directly mentioned in local forecasts.

If you’re asking about the weather right now in spring, also check:

• Radar for thunderstorms if you plan to be at parks like Piedmont Park or Chastain Park.
• Pollen counts if you’ll be outside for long periods or attending outdoor events and festivals.

Summer (June–August)

Summer in Atlanta is typically hot, humid, and stormy, especially in the afternoons.

• Daytime highs frequently reach the upper 80s to mid-90s°F.
• High humidity makes it feel hotter; “feels like” temperatures can be several degrees higher than the actual temperature.
• Pop-up thunderstorms are common, often in the late afternoon and early evening.

When you see current summer weather for Atlanta:

• A temperature in the 90s with high humidity means it may feel oppressive outdoors, especially on sidewalks, downtown streets, and near concrete-heavy areas.
• Check for heat advisories or warnings, especially if you plan to be outside at spots like the Atlanta BeltLine, Centennial Olympic Park, or Atlanta Botanical Garden.
• Thunderstorms may bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds, which can affect driving visibility and cause localized flooding.

Fall (September–November)

Fall in Atlanta is often one of the most comfortable seasons.

• Temperatures usually range from the 60s to low 80s°F early in the season, cooling later.
• Humidity drops compared with summer, making it feel more comfortable outdoors.
• Rain still occurs, but long stretches of clear, pleasant days are common.

If you’re checking the weather right now in fall:

• Look for cooler mornings and evenings, especially if you’ll be at outdoor events, tailgates, or walking in neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland or Inman Park.
• Some days can still be surprisingly warm, so layers are helpful.

Key Weather Factors to Check in Atlanta Today

Temperature and “Feels Like” Conditions

Because of humidity, the temperature in Atlanta does not always match how it feels.

• In summer, a reported 90°F can feel like 100°F or more in full sun.
• In winter, even temperatures in the 40s can feel colder if it’s damp and breezy.

When you see a current report:

• Pay attention to the “feels like” or heat index if it’s warm.
• Note the wind chill if it’s cold or windy, especially if you’ll be outside for extended periods.

Rain, Storms, and Lightning

Atlanta frequently experiences quick-moving showers and thunderstorms, especially from late spring through summer.

If radar or local reports show storms around Atlanta right now:

• Expect heavy rain, possible lightning, and brief gusty winds.
• Outdoor activities at places like Stone Mountain Park, Zoo Atlanta, and rooftop venues may be delayed or modified.
• Driving can become challenging on I‑20, I‑75, I‑85, and I‑285 during heavy downpours due to reduced visibility and ponding water.

Many Atlantans watch the hourly forecast to time errands, workouts, or commutes between storm cells.

Humidity and Comfort Level

Humidity is a major factor in how Atlanta weather feels.

• In warm months, high humidity makes it feel hotter and more tiring outdoors.
• In cooler months, damp air can make chilly days feel colder than the number suggests.

When checking weather conditions right now:

• Look at the relative humidity. Above about 60–65%, many people start to feel sticky and uncomfortable, especially in direct sun.
• Combine humidity with temperature to decide what to wear and how long you’ll be comfortable outside.

Air Quality and Visibility

On hot, stagnant summer days, Atlanta can experience reduced air quality, especially during the afternoon and early evening. Visibility can also be affected by:

• Fog on cooler mornings, especially in low-lying areas and near rivers.
• Haze or smog, which can make the skyline appear dull or bluish-gray.

If the weather right now includes air quality alerts:

• Outdoor activities—especially intense exercise like running on the BeltLine or at Grant Park—may feel more tiring.
• Sensitive groups may choose to spend more time indoors when air quality is poor.

Quick Atlanta Weather Cheat Sheet by Season

Use this summary to interpret what “right now” conditions likely feel like around town.

Local Weather Considerations Around Atlanta

Microclimates Within the Metro Area

Even within the Atlanta area, conditions can vary slightly:

• Downtown and Midtown: More concrete and buildings can hold heat, making it feel slightly warmer, especially at night.
• Suburban and outlying areas (e.g., Sandy Springs, Decatur, College Park): May feel a bit cooler, especially in shaded or wooded neighborhoods.
• Areas near lakes or rivers (such as near the Chattahoochee River) can feel more humid.

When you check weather right now, it’s helpful to:

• Note if the report is for Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, Downtown, or a specific neighborhood.
• Adjust your expectations slightly if you’re in a heavily shaded, wooded, or higher-elevation area north of the city.

How Atlanta Weather Affects Daily Life

Knowing the current weather in Atlanta helps with:

• Commuting:

  • Heavy rain or storms can slow traffic on major interstates and surface streets.
  • Fog or low visibility can affect early morning commutes.

• Transit and Flights:

  • Thunderstorms can delay flights in and out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
  • Severe weather may temporarily affect MARTA rail or bus operations.

• Events and Attractions:

  • Outdoor venues like Truist Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s plaza, and local festivals may adjust timing or activities based on storms or extreme heat.
  • Many Atlantans adjust plans last-minute by checking the hourly forecast.

Staying Informed About Atlanta Weather Right Now

While you can’t get live data directly from this page, you can use a combination of local TV stations, radio, apps, and government agencies to stay informed.

Local Government and Emergency Information

These organizations are central for official weather-related updates and emergency communication in the Atlanta area:

• City of Atlanta – Mayor’s Office of Emergency Preparedness

  • 55 Trinity Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Phone: (404) 330-6333

• Fulton County Emergency Management Agency

  • 130 Peachtree Street SW, Suite 1100, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Phone: (404) 612-5660

• Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS)

  • 935 East Confederate Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
  • Phone: (404) 635-7000

These offices do not provide routine daily forecasts, but they are critical when severe weather is impacting Atlanta right now—such as tornado warnings, flooding, or ice storms.

Severe Weather Alerts in Atlanta

When the weather right now involves dangerous conditions, pay attention to official alerts such as:

• Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
• Tornado Watches and Warnings
• Flash Flood Warnings
• Winter Weather Advisories and Warnings
• Heat Advisories and Excessive Heat Warnings

During such alerts, Atlantans often:

• Move activities indoors, away from windows during storms.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads, especially in low-lying neighborhoods and underpasses.
• Check local TV or radio for real-time updates if power or cell service is affected.

Practical Tips for Navigating Today’s Weather in Atlanta

Once you’ve checked the current conditions for Atlanta, these quick tips can help you act on that information:

• If it’s hot and humid right now:

  • Plan strenuous activities (running, yard work, outdoor sports) for early morning or evening.
  • Choose shaded routes or indoor options when possible.

• If storms are in the area:

  • Allow extra time for driving, and check for ponding on roads.
  • Avoid outdoor activities on high ground, near tall isolated trees, or open fields when lightning is nearby.

• If temperatures are near or below freezing:

  • Be cautious on bridges, overpasses, and less-traveled roads, especially overnight and before sunrise.
  • Expect possible delays or modified hours at schools and certain services if freezing rain or ice is present.

• If air quality is poor:

  • Consider limiting intense outdoor exercise during the warmest part of the day.
  • Spend more time in well-ventilated indoor spaces when possible.

Whenever you look up the weather in Atlanta, Georgia right now, use the current temperature, humidity, precipitation, and alerts together with the seasonal patterns above. That combination will give you a reliable picture of what it actually feels like outside and how to plan your time in and around Atlanta.