Weather in Atlanta, Georgia: What to Expect Throughout the Year

If you’re living in Atlanta, visiting for a few days, or planning a move, understanding the weather in Atlanta, Georgia helps you pack right, plan activities, and prepare your home or trip. Atlanta’s climate is best described as humid subtropical: long, hot, and humid summers; short, mild winters; and comfortable but changeable spring and fall.

Below is a practical, locally focused guide to what weather in Atlanta is really like month by month, what to wear, and how to prepare for storms, heat, and everything in between.

Atlanta’s Climate at a Glance

Atlanta sits in north Georgia at a higher elevation than many Southern cities, which takes a bit of the edge off the heat but doesn’t eliminate the summer humidity.

Key characteristics of Atlanta weather:

• Hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms
• Mild winters with occasional cold snaps and rare snow or ice
• Rain fairly well spread through the year, not just one “rainy season”
• Rapid day-to-day changes, especially in spring and fall
• Storm risks that include thunderstorms, heavy rain, occasional flooding, and very rare tornadoes in the metro area

Typical Weather by Season in Atlanta

Spring (March–May)

Spring in Atlanta is one of the most pleasant times of year, but also one of the most changeable.

• Temperatures: Often in the 60s to 70s°F during the day, cooler at night
• Feel: Comfortable, but can swing from chilly to warm within a day or two
• Rain & storms: Thunderstorms become more common, especially later in spring

Things locals watch for in spring:

• 🌸 Pollen: Atlanta is known for heavy tree and grass pollen in March–April. Many people notice yellow pollen on cars, patios, and sidewalks.
• ⛈ Storms: Afternoon thunderstorms can bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds.

What to wear/pack:

• Layers (light jacket, long-sleeve shirt, and short sleeves)
• An umbrella or light rain jacket
• Closed-toe shoes that can handle wet ground

Summer (June–August)

Atlanta summers are hot, humid, and often muggy, especially in July and August.

• Temperatures: Commonly upper 80s to mid-90s°F during the day
• Heat index: Humidity makes it feel hotter than the actual temperature
• Rain: Frequent afternoon or evening thunderstorms, often short but intense
• Nights: Often stay warm and humid, making evenings feel tropical

Typical summer patterns:

• Hot and mostly sunny mornings
• Clouds building through the afternoon
• A chance of brief but heavy thunderstorms, sometimes with lightning and gusty winds

Summer tips for Atlanta:

• ☀ Plan outdoor activities early or late: Midday can be uncomfortably hot.
• 💧 Hydrate: Heat plus humidity can feel draining, especially when walking in neighborhoods like Midtown or Downtown.
• 🌧 Expect pop-up storms: Don’t be surprised if a sunny afternoon turns into a 30-minute downpour.

What to wear/pack:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Sandals or breathable shoes, plus a backup layer for air-conditioned indoor spaces (restaurants, offices, museums)

Fall (September–November)

Fall is often considered the most comfortable season in Atlanta.

• Temperatures: Warm in September, then gradually cooling into the 60s and 70s°F
• Humidity: Decreases, making the air feel more comfortable
• Rain: Still possible, but generally less intense than in summer storms

What fall feels like:

• Early fall can still feel like late summer—warm days, comfortable nights
• By October and November, mornings and evenings become cooler, sometimes jacket-worthy

What to wear/pack:

• T-shirts or light tops during the day
• A light jacket or sweater for evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring neighborhoods, parks, and trails (like the BeltLine or Piedmont Park)

Winter (December–February)

Atlanta winters are short and generally mild, but short cold snaps and occasional wintry weather do occur.

• Typical daytime highs: Often in the 40s and 50s°F
• Nights: Can dip below freezing, especially in January
• Snow and ice: Possible, but usually light and infrequent; significant events are rare

When winter storms do occur, they can cause icy roads and disruptions, even with small amounts of snow or freezing rain.

Winter patterns:

• Cool, sometimes damp days
• Periodic cold fronts bringing sharp temperature drops
• Occasional frosty mornings

What to wear/pack:

• Medium-weight coat or heavy jacket
• Sweaters or warm layers
• Gloves and a hat if you tend to get cold easily

Month-by-Month Snapshot of Atlanta Weather

Use this table as a quick planning guide. Values are approximate and meant for practical expectations, not precise forecasts.

Rain, Thunderstorms, and Severe Weather in Atlanta

Everyday Rain and Thunderstorms

Atlanta sees rain throughout the year, but it is especially noticeable from late spring through early fall, often as:

• Short, heavy afternoon showers
• Thunderstorms with lightning and loud thunder
• Brief downpours that can cause minor street flooding in low-lying areas

If you’re walking in Downtown, Midtown, or around Buckhead, it’s common to experience a sudden storm followed by clearing skies the same day.

Practical tips:

• Keep a compact umbrella or light rain jacket handy, especially in summer.
• Be cautious driving during heavy rain—visibility can drop quickly.
• Stay indoors during lightning, especially in open parks or around tall structures.

Severe Weather: What’s Possible

Atlanta can occasionally experience severe thunderstorms, strong winds, and rarely tornadoes in the broader metro area. The most active times for severe weather are typically spring and sometimes fall.

Common local alerts may include:

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch/Warning – risk of damaging winds, hail, or intense lightning
• Tornado Watch/Warning – rare in the city core, but possible in the region
• Flash Flood Warning – heavy rain in a short period, especially a concern near creeks and low-lying streets

For real-time alerts, residents commonly rely on:

• Local TV stations based in Atlanta
• Weather radio devices
• Smartphone alert systems that push emergency notifications

Heat, Humidity, and Staying Comfortable

How Hot Does Atlanta Really Feel?

Even if the thermometer reads 88°F, the humidity can make it feel noticeably hotter. Walking in the sun along Peachtree Street or attending an outdoor event can feel intense in July and August, especially in the middle of the day.

To stay more comfortable:

• Plan strenuous outdoor activities (jogging, hiking, yard work) in early morning or late evening.
• Seek shade or indoor breaks during the peak heat (roughly 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.).
• Use light-colored, breathable fabrics.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Temperatures

Most public buildings in Atlanta—offices, malls, hotels, the airport, and attractions—use strong air conditioning in summer. You may find yourself moving between:

• Hot, humid outdoors
• Cool, air-conditioned indoors

A light layer (like a thin cardigan or long-sleeve shirt) can make indoor spaces more comfortable if you’re sensitive to cooler air.

Winter Weather: Cold Snaps and Rare Snow in Atlanta

What Winter Really Feels Like

Winters are usually not harsh, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Short cold snaps can drop temperatures quickly for a day or two.
• Wind chill can make it feel colder, especially in open downtown areas.
• Occasional freezing rain or sleet can create slippery conditions, even with small amounts.

When snow or ice does occur, it can impact:

• Road travel, especially on bridges and steep hills
• School and business hours
• Flight schedules at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Preparing for a Possible Winter Event

Atlanta residents sometimes:

• Keep an ice scraper in their car for frosty mornings
• Have basic supplies at home (flashlights, batteries, nonperishable food) during potential winter storms
• Monitor local news for school and office closure information

How Atlanta’s Weather Affects Daily Life

Commuting and Driving

• Heavy rain or storms: Slower traffic, pooling water on some roads
• Summer heat: Cars warm up quickly; people often use sunshades and seek shaded parking
• Winter cold snaps: Isolated icy spots, especially early morning

If you commute on major routes like I-75, I-85, or I-285, plan extra travel time during stormy weather.

Outdoor Activities

Atlanta’s parks and trails, such as Piedmont Park, the BeltLine, and local greenways, are usable almost year-round. Weather influences:

• Spring & fall: Prime times for festivals, outdoor dining, and walking tours
• Summer: Early morning and evening are more comfortable for outdoor workouts
• Winter: Still workable for walks and runs on many days, with a jacket

Local Weather Resources and Services

For Atlanta-specific weather information and emergency management, key public agencies include:

• National Weather Service – Atlanta Area (Peachtree City Office)

  • 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
  • Commonly provides forecasts, watches, and warnings for the Atlanta metro region

• City of Atlanta – Office of Emergency Preparedness

  • Atlanta City Hall, 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Coordinates local emergency response planning and public information during major weather events

These agencies provide official, regularly updated information on storms, flooding concerns, and significant weather impacts for residents.

Practical Packing and Planning Checklist for Atlanta

Whether you’re new to the city or just visiting, this simple checklist helps you prepare for Atlanta’s weather:

• Year-round essentials:

  • Compact umbrella or light rain jacket
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A light layer for air-conditioned indoor spaces

• Spring & fall:

  • Layered clothing (t-shirts plus a light jacket or sweater)
  • Optional mask or glasses if you’re sensitive to pollen in spring

• Summer:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle

• Winter:

  • Medium-weight coat or insulated jacket
  • Sweaters and long pants
  • Gloves and a warm hat if you get cold easily

Understanding the weather in Atlanta, Georgia helps you plan your commute, weekend plans, and trips with fewer surprises. Expect heat and humidity in summer, mild but sometimes changeable winters, and generally pleasant spring and fall—with the possibility of quick storms at almost any time of year.