Atlanta, GA Weather in February: What to Expect and How to Prepare

February in Atlanta, Georgia can feel like a season all its own. It’s technically still winter, but some days feel like early spring, others can turn cold and damp, and every so often a quick cold snap reminds you that frost and even ice are still possible.

If you live in Atlanta, are planning a visit, or are trying to decide what to pack or plan in February, this guide walks through typical weather, clothing tips, driving and travel considerations, and how the month’s conditions can affect outdoor plans.

Typical Atlanta Weather in February

Temperatures: Cool Mornings, Mild Afternoons

February in Atlanta is usually cool but not extreme:

• Average highs: around the mid‑50s to low‑60s °F
• Average lows: generally in the mid‑30s to low‑40s °F

On many days, you can step out in a jacket in the morning and be comfortable in lighter layers by afternoon. However, it’s normal to see:

• A few warmer days climbing into the upper 60s or even near 70°F
• An occasional cold snap, especially early in the month, with mornings near or below freezing

For anyone planning outdoor activities, it’s wise to assume you’ll get a mix of chilly and pleasantly mild days, sometimes in the same week.

Rain, Clouds, and Storms

February is usually a fairly wet month in Atlanta:

• Rain often comes in fronts: a cloudy, cooler day or two with steady rain, followed by clearing and breezy conditions.
• Light showers and drizzle are common, especially in the mornings or evenings.
• A few thunderstorms are possible, especially late in the month as springlike patterns start to develop.

Wind is usually moderate, but cold fronts can bring gusty winds that make it feel colder than the actual temperature.

Snow and Ice: How Likely Are They?

Metro Atlanta is better known for rain and occasional ice than for heavy snow:

• Snowfall is possible but not guaranteed in February. Some years pass with only flurries; others see a light accumulation.
• Black ice can form on bridges and overpasses when temperatures dip below freezing after rain.
• If snow or ice does occur, it can disrupt traffic, flights, and transit, even with relatively small amounts.

Anyone driving very early in the morning or late at night during cold snaps should stay alert for slick spots, especially on hilly or elevated roads.

Daylight and Seasonal Feel

By February, Atlanta is slowly shifting out of its winter darkness:

• Daylight increases across the month, with noticeably later sunsets by late February.
• Many trees remain bare, but early-blooming plants and some flowers can start to show up, especially in warmer stretches.

The overall feel is a transition from winter to early spring—you may see people out jogging in shorts on a mild day, then bundling back up when the next front moves through.

What to Wear in Atlanta in February

Core Clothing Strategy: Layers

The most practical way to dress for February weather in Atlanta is to think in layers you can add or remove:

• Base layer: Light long-sleeve shirt, t‑shirt, or thin thermal top
• Middle layer: Sweater, fleece, or light sweatshirt
• Outer layer: Medium‑weight jacket or coat; waterproof shell if rain is likely

On a typical day:

• Morning commute: Jacket + sweater
• Midday: You may be comfortable in just a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater
• Evening: Layers go back on as temps drop

Footwear and Accessories

• Comfortable closed‑toe shoes or sneakers for walking around the city
• Water‑resistant shoes or boots if rain is in the forecast
• Umbrella or hooded jacket for frequent showers
• Light gloves and a hat for those windier, colder mornings
• A scarf can help on blustery days, especially if you plan to walk between MARTA stations, parking decks, and venues

If you’re coming from a colder climate, you may find February in Atlanta relatively mild, but locals know the damp chill and wind can still feel sharp without proper layers.

Travel, Commuting, and Driving in February

Road Conditions

Most February days, Atlanta roads are simply wet rather than icy. Keep these points in mind:

• During cold snaps, watch for black ice on:
  • Bridges and overpasses
  • Ramps near Downtown Connector (I‑75/I‑85), I‑285, and other interchanges
  • Shaded neighborhood streets
• Allow extra time on mornings following an overnight rain and freeze.
• Local agencies may issue winter weather advisories when ice or light snow is expected.

Residents commonly monitor weather updates from the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and Georgia DOT, particularly for school and office schedule changes during winter events.

Air Travel: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport

If you’re flying through Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in February:

• Rain and low clouds can slow operations and lead to delays.
• Winter weather events, while not frequent, may trigger de‑icing procedures and schedule adjustments.
• It’s smart to:
  • Check flight status frequently on the day of travel
  • Build extra time into connections during active weather

Airport Address (for planning and navigation):

• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
  6000 N Terminal Pkwy
  Atlanta, GA 30320
  Main information line: (800) 897‑1910 (commonly listed for general inquiries)

Outdoor Plans and Events in February

How Comfortable Is It to Be Outside?

Many Atlantans continue outdoor activities in February, especially on milder days:

• Walking or running on the BeltLine
• Visiting Piedmont Park, Grant Park, or neighborhood trails
• Outdoor dining on patios with heaters

On cool but sunny afternoons, a light jacket may be all you need. Windy, damp days, however, can feel much colder than the thermometer suggests.

Planning Around Rain and Cold

If you’re organizing events or sightseeing:

• Have a rain backup plan for outdoor gatherings and photos.
• Choose venues that offer indoor and covered outdoor spaces if flexibility is important.
• For longer hikes or day trips (such as to Stone Mountain Park), check the forecast and start earlier in the day, when rain chances may be lower and you have more daylight to adjust if the weather changes.

Health and Comfort Considerations (Non‑Medical)

While conditions vary from person to person, many Atlanta residents notice a few common February patterns:

• Dry indoor air from heating systems can make skin and lips feel dry.
• Cool, damp air may feel uncomfortable for people sensitive to cold.
• Early in the month, winter chill still dominates; later in the month, some people notice early spring pollen starting, especially on warmer, breezy days.

Practical, non‑medical comfort tips include:

• Keeping lip balm and hand lotion handy due to dry indoor conditions
• Using sunglasses on bright days; winter sun can be surprisingly strong
• Packing tissues if you’re prone to mild seasonal irritation once pollen starts to appear

For urgent or health‑specific questions related to weather impacts, residents often consult local healthcare providers or urgent care centers rather than relying solely on weather information.

Where Atlantans Can Get Local Weather Information

For precise, day‑to‑day updates in February, many residents rely on local and official sources, which can include:

• National Weather Service – Atlanta Forecast Office
  (Serves metro Atlanta with official forecasts, advisories, and warnings.)

• City of Atlanta and Fulton/DeKalb County channels
  These may share alerts regarding city services, closures, or emergency instructions during significant weather.

• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
  For information on road conditions, major incidents, and winter weather road impacts.

Having a reliable weather app, local TV or radio station, and alerts from official agencies can help you adjust plans quickly when February weather shifts.

Packing Checklist for Visiting Atlanta in February

Here is a simple overview of what most visitors find useful during a February stay in Atlanta:

Key Takeaways About Atlanta Weather in February

• Expect cool to mild temperatures: mornings often in the 30s–40s °F, afternoons in the 50s–60s °F.
• Rain is common, with passing fronts bringing clouds, showers, and then clearer, breezy conditions.
• Snow and ice are possible but not routine; when they do occur, they can disrupt driving and travel.
• Conditions can vary significantly from day to day, so layering clothing and checking the forecast often is the most practical approach.
• February in Atlanta feels like a transition between winter and early spring, with enough mild days to enjoy the city’s parks, neighborhoods, and outdoor spaces—if you’re prepared for sudden shifts in the weather.