Snow in Atlanta, GA: What to Expect, What to Do, and How to Prepare

Snow in Atlanta, Georgia is rare enough to feel exciting, but serious enough to cause real disruption when it happens. If you live in Atlanta, are visiting, or are simply wondering what “snowing in Atlanta, GA” really looks like, this guide walks through what you need to know, locally and practically.

Does It Actually Snow in Atlanta?

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, which means:

• Winters are usually mild
• Snow is infrequent, but not unheard of
• When it does snow, even a small amount can cause major impacts

Most winters, you may see:

• A dusting of flurries that melt quickly
• An occasional light accumulation on grassy or elevated surfaces
• A larger winter event (snow, sleet, or freezing rain) every few years

Locals know that ice can be a bigger concern than deep snow. Roads can glaze over quickly when temperatures hover around freezing, especially on bridges and overpasses along I‑285, I‑75, I‑85, and GA‑400.

Typical Snow Season in Atlanta

While snow can technically occur anytime from late fall through early spring, Atlanta’s main snow window is:

• Late December through February, with January often being the most likely month

Typical Atlanta Winter Conditions

Because temperatures often sit near freezing when winter storms arrive, small shifts can turn a predicted “cold rain” into wet snow or icy roads with little notice.

How Often Does It Snow Enough to Matter?

In Atlanta, people tend to remember events, not “average inches.”

Common patterns:

• Some winters have no measurable snow at all
• Some winters see one or two light events that briefly coat roofs, cars, and lawns
• Every few years, a larger system can drop several inches of snow or lead to widespread ice

These larger events are what lead to:

• School and office closures
• MARTA service adjustments
• Icy conditions on major roads and neighborhood streets
• Power outages in some areas, especially where trees overhang lines

Snow vs. Ice: Why Atlanta Can Shut Down Quickly

When it’s snowing in Atlanta, the bigger story is often ice:

• Ground temperatures may be warm from previous mild days, so snow that falls can melt and refreeze overnight.
• Mixed precipitation (snow + sleet + freezing rain) makes roads slippery even with low accumulation.
• Many secondary and neighborhood streets are hilly and shaded, especially in areas like Druid Hills, Buckhead, and parts of Southwest Atlanta, which can stay icy longer.

Unlike cities built around regular snowfall, Atlanta:

• Has limited snow removal equipment compared with northern cities
• Is not designed for routine plowing of every side street
• Has a large number of drivers inexperienced with snow and ice

Because of this, local officials often act early when snow is in the forecast, to avoid repeat scenarios where drivers get stuck on highways or students can’t get home safely.

Who Handles Roads, Schools, and Public Services When It Snows?

When it’s snowing in Atlanta, several local agencies play important roles.

Road Treatment and Snow Removal

City of Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT)

• Focuses on city-maintained streets within Atlanta city limits
• Prioritizes major routes, hills, bridges, and hospital access corridors

Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)

• Responsible for interstates and state routes (I‑75, I‑85, I‑20, I‑285, GA‑400, etc.)
• Treats roads with brine, salt, or sand ahead of and during winter weather

Main contacts and references (for planning purposes):

• City of Atlanta Department of Transportation
  City Hall, 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  General city information line: 311 (inside city) or 404-330-6000

• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) – Customer Service
  One Georgia Center, 600 W. Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
  Main phone: 404-631-1990

For live road conditions, local residents often rely on:

• Local TV and radio (Atlanta traffic reports)
• Highway message boards and travel times
• GDOT’s travel information resources

Schools and Closures

When snow is in the forecast, Atlanta Public Schools (APS) and surrounding districts (like DeKalb, Fulton, Cobb, and Gwinnett) decide whether to:

• Stay open on normal schedule
• Open late
• Dismiss early
• Close for the day

For APS, official information is typically shared through:

• District website
• Automated calls/texts to families
• Local news outlets

Atlanta Public Schools – Central Office
130 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Main phone: 404-802-3500

If you are visiting Atlanta, check with:

• Your hotel or host about planned operations
• Any event venue or attraction you plan to visit (museums, theaters, offices) for snow policy updates

What to Do When It Starts Snowing in Atlanta

When snow starts falling, local advice is usually to minimize non-essential travel until conditions are clearer.

For Drivers

✅ Before you drive:

• Check current conditions and forecasts for your route
• Top off your gas; keep your phone charged
• If possible, plan your errands before the worst of the weather arrives

🚗 While driving in snow or ice:

• Slow down far more than you think you need to
• Leave extra space between you and the car ahead
• Avoid sudden braking, sharp turns, and rapid acceleration
• Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, and ramps (such as those along I‑285 interchanges)

If you can, stay off the roads during the worst period of snow or ice. Even if you feel confident driving, other drivers may not be, and conditions can change quickly.

For MARTA Riders

MARTA may:

• Adjust bus routes (detours around steep hills or problem areas)
• Experience delays on trains and buses
• Reduce frequency if conditions worsen

If you depend on MARTA and snow is in the forecast:

• Leave extra travel time
• Check alerts before heading out
• Have a backup plan if service is limited

MARTA Headquarters (for reference):
2424 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Customer information line: 404-848-5000

Staying Safe at Home During Snow and Ice

When it’s snowing in Atlanta and you’re staying put, a little preparation goes a long way.

Home and Apartment Tips

• Protect pipes: In very cold snaps, some residents let faucets drip slightly to reduce the chance of pipes freezing.
• Know your heat source: Whether you use electric, gas, or heat pumps, verify your system works before the coldest days arrive.
• Avoid improvised heating: Using ovens or grills indoors is unsafe. Stick to appropriate home heating equipment and follow safety instructions.
• Have basic supplies:
  • Non-perishable food and water
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Blankets and warm clothing
  • A simple first-aid kit

Power Outages

Heavy, wet snow or ice can bring down tree limbs and power lines, particularly in older, tree-filled neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, or West End.

If power goes out:

• Use flashlights, not candles, where possible
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to help maintain temperatures
• Follow advice from your local utility provider about reporting outages and estimated restoration times

Major electric providers in the Atlanta area include:

• Georgia Power – Customer Service: 1-888-660-5890

What Visitors Should Know About Snow in Atlanta

If you’re visiting when it’s snowing in Atlanta:

• Expect changes to plans: Some attractions may close early or not open at all during winter weather.
• Ride shares may surge or become limited on icy roads.
• Certain neighborhoods with steep streets can be hard for drivers to access safely.

Helpful approaches:

• Stay in walkable areas (for example, Downtown, Midtown, or near the BeltLine), so you can get around on foot if roads are problematic.
• Check with your hotel about:
  • On-site dining hours
  • Transportation options
  • Any specific safety notices for the area

Air travel through Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport may also be affected by snow, with delays and de‑icing operations. Airlines usually send notifications through their own systems and apps when schedules are disrupted.

Preparing for the Next Time It Snows in Atlanta

Because snow is infrequent but impactful in Atlanta, many residents choose to keep a simple winter kit on hand, just in case.

Basic Car Kit for Atlanta Winters

• Ice scraper or small snow brush
• Small shovel (folding or compact if possible)
• Blanket or extra jacket
• Phone charger (car adapter or battery pack)
• Bottled water and light snacks
• Printed or saved directions in case GPS or battery fails

Around the House

• Some shelf‑stable food and bottled water
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Extra blankets and warm socks
• A way to receive local weather information if power or internet is unreliable (battery-powered radio or phone alerts)

How to Stay Informed When Snow Is Forecast

When snow is in the forecast for Atlanta:

• Monitor local forecasts from Atlanta-based weather sources
• Stay aware of city and county announcements regarding roads, schools, and public services
• Make decisions based on your specific neighborhood and travel route, not just the general city outlook

If you live in or are staying within the City of Atlanta, you can also contact:

• Atlanta Customer Service (311)
  From a local phone: 311
  From outside city limits: 404-546-0311

They can direct you to information about city operations, road treatment priorities, and other non-emergency services.

When it’s snowing in Atlanta, GA, the key is to take it seriously even if the accumulation looks minor. Light snow and freezing rain can create significant hazards in a city not built around regular winter storms. With realistic expectations, a bit of preparation, and attention to local information, residents and visitors can navigate Atlanta’s occasional snowy days much more safely and comfortably.