Atlanta Weather in December: What to Expect and How to Prepare
December in Atlanta, Georgia is a mix of cool, often cloudy days with occasional cold snaps and plenty of mild stretches. If you live here, are visiting for the holidays, or planning events, understanding Atlanta’s December weather helps you pack, dress, and plan activities with fewer surprises.
Overview: Is December Cold in Atlanta?
December in Atlanta is cool, not usually frigid, with big swings between mild afternoons and chilly mornings.
Typical December conditions in Atlanta:
- Average high: mid–50s °F (around 55°F–58°F)
- Average low: mid–30s °F (around 35°F–38°F)
- Overall feel: Cool and damp, with a mix of gray days and clear, crisp ones
- Daylight: Short days, long evenings — sunset is often before 5:30 p.m.
You’ll see everything from light-jacket days to a few mornings that feel genuinely cold. Snow is uncommon, but rain and chilly wind are frequent enough that layers and a waterproof jacket come in handy.
Temperature Patterns Through the Month
December in Atlanta doesn’t feel the same from start to finish. The month usually transitions from fall-like to more winter-like conditions, especially around and after mid-December.
Early December (Dec 1–10)
- Many days still feel like late fall.
- Afternoon highs often reach the upper 50s to low 60s on milder days.
- Mornings are cool, generally in the 40s, occasionally dipping into the upper 30s.
- Light jackets, sweaters, and hoodies are usually enough during the day.
Mid-December (Dec 11–20)
- Temperatures start to trend cooler overall.
- Highs hover in the low to mid-50s most days.
- Lows more often fall into the mid-30s, with some freezing (32°F or below) nights.
- Cold fronts bring sharp temperature drops and breezy days.
Late December and Holidays (Dec 21–31)
- This is when Atlanta feels the most winter-like, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
- Highs are commonly in the upper 40s to low 50s on colder days.
- Lows can dip into the upper 20s to low 30s during cold snaps.
- A brief warm-up into the 60s is still possible — Atlanta weather can swing quickly.
Rain, Clouds, and Storms in December
December is typically one of the wetter months in Atlanta, but usually because of rain, not snow.
Rain
- Expect several rainy days spread through the month.
- Rain is often light to moderate, but occasional heavier showers move in with fronts.
- Most systems bring cool, raw, and damp conditions rather than severe thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms
- Strong, summer-style thunderstorms are less common in December.
- However, if a warm, humid air mass moves in, you can still see a few stormy days, especially with strong weather systems crossing the Southeast.
Cloud Cover
- Many December days are partly to mostly cloudy.
- Clear, sunny days do happen and feel pleasant in the afternoon sun, but shade and wind still feel cool.
Snow and Ice: Does It Snow in Atlanta in December?
Snow is possible but not typical in Atlanta during December.
- Most Decembers pass with little to no snow accumulation in the city itself.
- When snow does occur, it is often light, melts quickly, or mixes with rain.
- Freezing rain or black ice can be more of a concern than deep snow.
Because Atlanta isn’t built for regular winter storms:
- Even a light glaze of ice on bridges or overpasses can cause major travel disruptions.
- Icy conditions can lead to school and event delays or closures, even if it looks mild by northern standards.
If you’re in Atlanta and hear about a potential winter weather advisory in December:
- Keep an eye on local TV forecasts and radio.
- Plan extra travel time.
- Avoid driving overnight or early morning on elevated roads and interstates if ice is expected.
Humidity, Wind, and “Real Feel”
December humidity in Atlanta is often moderate to high, especially on cloudy, damp days. That can make the air feel:
- Colder than the thermometer when it’s wet, breezy, and in the 30s or 40s.
- Chillier in the shade and during the evening, even if midday feels mild.
Wind is usually light to moderate but can pick up with cold fronts, creating a wind chill that makes a 45°F day feel closer to the 30s.
Key takeaway: Even when you see mild numbers on your weather app, carry an extra layer if you’ll be out early, late, or near the water (like around the Chattahoochee River) where it can feel cooler.
Sunrise, Sunset, and Daylight in December
December has some of the shortest days of the year in Atlanta.
Typical daylight pattern:
- Sunrise: Around 7:30 a.m.
- Sunset: Around 5:30 p.m. earlier in the month, sometimes a bit earlier closer to the solstice
- Day length: Roughly 10 hours of light
What this means in practice:
- Evening commutes are often in the dark, sometimes in rain or drizzle.
- Outdoor activities (parks, walking the BeltLine, visiting Zoo Atlanta, etc.) are easier to fit in midday or early afternoon.
- Holiday light displays around the city benefit from early darkness, but you’ll want a warm jacket for nighttime events.
What to Wear in Atlanta in December
Packing or dressing for December in Atlanta is all about layers and flexibility.
Everyday Clothing
For most days, a layered outfit works best:
- Base layer: T-shirt or light long-sleeve shirt
- Middle layer: Sweater, fleece, or sweatshirt
- Outer layer: Medium-weight jacket or coat, ideally wind-resistant or water-resistant
Consider:
- Jeans or medium-weight pants most days
- Warmer socks in the mornings or on colder days
- A hat and light gloves for early mornings, evenings, or windy days
Footwear
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes or sneakers are fine for most days.
- For rainy days, water-resistant shoes or boots are helpful, especially if you’ll walk city sidewalks, MARTA stations, or outdoor attractions.
For Nights Out and Holiday Events
If you’re heading to:
- Holiday shows at the Fox Theatre
- Outdoor events at Atlantic Station, Colony Square, or light displays at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Plan for:
- A warmer coat, especially if you’ll be outside for more than 20–30 minutes
- Layers you can remove indoors — buildings, restaurants, and malls often feel warm compared to the outdoor air
- A scarf and gloves for walking between parking, MARTA, and venues
How December Weather Affects Daily Life in Atlanta
Driving and Commuting
- Rain + early darkness can make afternoon and evening commutes slower.
- Watch for slick roads on busy corridors like I‑285, I‑75/85 (“The Connector”), and GA‑400.
- If there’s talk of ice, consider staying off the road in the late night and early morning hours.
Outdoor Activities
Despite the cool temperatures, you can still enjoy:
- Walking or biking the Atlanta BeltLine
- Hiking at Stone Mountain or Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
- Strolling around Piedmont Park or Grant Park
Dress in layers, and check the day’s wind and rain forecast before committing to longer outdoor plans.
Events and Holidays
December is a busy holiday and travel month in Atlanta:
- Expect crowds and traffic around shopping areas like Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza, and Cumberland Mall, especially on rainy weekends.
- Airport travel at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport can be affected by storms or low clouds, even if there’s no snow.
If you’re flying:
- Build extra time into your schedule, especially around major holidays.
- Monitor flight updates in case of weather-related delays.
December Weather by Activity Type
Here’s a quick look at how December weather in Atlanta lines up with common plans:
| Activity Type | December Weather Impact in Atlanta | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Sightseeing downtown / Midtown | Generally fine with a jacket; can be chilly in shade and wind | Wear layers and comfortable shoes |
| Outdoor holiday lights / festivals | Cold after sunset, sometimes damp | Bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves |
| Hiking / parks | Cool, often comfortable mid-afternoon; mornings can be brisk | Start late morning, check for rain or mud |
| Driving / commuting | Dark, often wet drives; occasional concern over ice on rare days | Slow down in rain, monitor winter advisories |
| Visiting family / walking neighborhoods | Usually mild enough for short walks, colder at night | Lightweight jacket by day, heavier at night |
| Airport travel | More impacted by rain/low clouds than snow | Allow extra travel and security time |
Planning Travel: Roads, Transit, and the Airport
On the Roads
Most December days bring conditions that are safe for driving, with rain being the main nuisance.
For road conditions and weather-related travel information around Atlanta and Georgia, you can use:
- Georgia 511 (Travel Information): Dial 511 from most phones in Georgia for traffic and road condition updates.
MARTA and Local Transit
MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) rail and bus service runs through most winter weather, including rainy and chilly days.
- Cold and wet weather can make outdoor platforms and bus stops feel extra chilly.
- Bring a warm layer and umbrella, especially if transferring outside.
For information:
- MARTA Customer Information Center: 404‑848‑5000
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Atlanta’s airport is one of the busiest in the world, and December is peak season for:
- Holiday travel
- Winter weather delays elsewhere that can ripple into Atlanta
Locally:
- Rain and low clouds can slow operations.
- Rare winter weather events (ice, snow) may cause de-icing delays and schedule changes.
It’s wise to:
- Check your airline’s app frequently for gate and timing updates.
- Allow extra time to reach the airport, especially in rain or holiday traffic.
Staying Informed About December Weather in Atlanta
Weather in Atlanta can change quickly, especially when a strong cold front moves through. For the most up-to-date local information, you can follow:
- Local TV stations and radio weather broadcasts
- Official forecasts and warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS) Atlanta office, which covers the metro area
Listening for terms like:
- “Freeze warning” – Expect overnight temperatures below freezing; protect plants and outdoor pipes as needed.
- “Wind advisory” – Winds may make it feel much colder than the actual air temperature.
- “Winter weather advisory” – Light snow or ice possible; travel may be affected.
- “Winter storm warning” – More significant snow or ice; plan carefully and consider staying off roads.
Practical Tips for December in Atlanta
- Dress in layers: Mornings and evenings can feel like a different season from mid-afternoon.
- Carry a light rain jacket or umbrella: With December’s frequent systems, showers can pop up even on days that start out dry.
- Plan around daylight: Aim outdoor plans between late morning and mid-afternoon for the most comfortable conditions.
- Watch for ice mentions: Even if snow is unlikely, any mention of “freezing rain” or “black ice” deserves attention.
- Be flexible with travel: Around holidays, build cushion into your driving and flying schedules in case of rain or weather-related backups.
Understanding Atlanta’s December weather helps you enjoy the city’s holiday lights, neighborhood events, and outdoor spaces while staying comfortable and prepared for the occasional cold snap or wet day.