Weather in Atlanta, GA: What to Expect Through the Year

If you live in Atlanta, Georgia, are planning a visit, or are thinking about moving here, understanding the Atlanta weather is essential. From hot, humid summers to mild winters and the occasional severe storm, Atlanta’s climate shapes everything from what you wear to how you plan your day.

Below is a clear, locally focused guide to weather in Atlanta, GA and how it affects daily life.

Atlanta’s Overall Climate at a Glance

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, which generally means:

• Hot, humid summers
• Mild, short winters
• Comfortable spring and fall
• Rain spread fairly evenly throughout the year
• Occasional severe thunderstorms, especially in warmer months

Atlanta sits in the Piedmont region of Georgia at a relatively high elevation for the Southeast (around 1,000 feet above sea level), which keeps it a bit cooler than some other Southern cities at the same latitude.

Month-by-Month: Typical Weather in Atlanta

Temperatures and conditions can vary, but this table gives a simple year-round overview of what Atlanta weather is usually like:

These patterns give a general idea of weather in Atlanta, GA, but actual conditions can swing warmer or cooler from year to year.

Seasons in Atlanta: What Each One Feels Like

Spring in Atlanta (March–May)

Spring in Atlanta is often considered one of the most enjoyable times of year.

What to expect:

• Temperatures: Generally mild to warm, comfortable for outdoor activities.
• Rain: Regular showers and occasional thunderstorms.
• Pollen: Significant tree and grass pollen, especially around late March through April.
• Outdoor life: Parks like Piedmont Park, the Atlanta BeltLine, and Stone Mountain Park are very active this time of year.

Tip:
🌼 If you’re sensitive to pollen, keep an eye on pollen counts and consider keeping windows closed on high-pollen days.

Summer in Atlanta (June–August)

Summer is when Atlanta weather turns hot and humid.

What to expect:

• Heat: Highs often climb into the upper 80s and 90s (°F).
• Humidity: Air can feel heavy and sticky, especially in July and August.
• Storms: Short, intense afternoon thunderstorms are common, sometimes with heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds.
• Heat index: Temperatures can feel hotter than the thermometer reading due to humidity.

Practical tips for Atlanta summers:

• Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening when possible.
• Stay aware of heat advisories and thunderstorm warnings.
• Use shaded areas and cooling options such as city splash pads, pools, or indoor attractions.

Fall in Atlanta (September–November)

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

What to expect:

• September: Still warm, sometimes summer-like early in the month.
• October: Mild days, cooler evenings, lower humidity.
• November: Cooler, often crisp, with more frequent chilly mornings.
• Foliage: Changing leaves in and around Atlanta’s many tree-lined neighborhoods and parks.

This is a great time for festivals, outdoor dining, hiking in nearby areas like Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, and walking the BeltLine without the intense summer heat.

Winter in Atlanta (December–February)

Winter in Atlanta is usually mild compared with many other U.S. cities, but it can have brief cold spells.

What to expect:

• Temperatures: Often cool, with some freezing nights, especially in January.
• Snow/Ice:
  • Snow is infrequent and usually light.
  • Ice can be more of a concern when it does occur, affecting roads and power lines.
• Rain: Regular light to moderate rain, with cloudy periods.

Because Atlanta is not as accustomed to heavy winter weather, even a small amount of snow or ice can cause significant travel disruptions. Schools, businesses, and public services may adjust schedules when winter weather is expected.

Rain, Storms, and Severe Weather in Atlanta

Everyday Rain and Thunderstorms

Rain in Atlanta is fairly evenly spread throughout the year, but the style of rain changes by season:

• Warm months: Short, heavy downpours and thunderstorms, often in the afternoon.
• Cool months: More steady, lighter rain or drizzle.

Thunderstorms can bring:

• Frequent lightning
• Short bursts of strong wind
• Localized street flooding during intense rain

When storms are in the forecast, it’s wise to plan flexible timing for outdoor events and allow extra time for driving.

Severe Weather and Tornado Risk

Atlanta can experience severe thunderstorms, sometimes including:

• Damaging winds
• Hail
• Tornadoes, though strong tornadoes directly in central Atlanta are less common than in some other parts of the Southeast

During severe weather, local forecasters, the National Weather Service office serving Atlanta, and city emergency services may issue:

• Severe thunderstorm watches/warnings
• Tornado watches/warnings
• Flash flood warnings

If you live in Atlanta, it is helpful to:

• Know a safe interior room in your home or building.
• Monitor local weather alerts on days with severe weather potential.
• Be cautious driving during heavy rain or strong winds, especially under large trees.

Flooding Considerations

Short but intense storms can lead to localized flooding, especially:

• Under bridges and overpasses
• In low-lying or poorly drained areas
• Along some creeks and streams

Drivers in Atlanta are routinely reminded not to drive through standing water, as it can be deeper than it looks and can quickly disable a vehicle or put occupants at risk.

Temperature Extremes in Atlanta

Although Atlanta usually experiences moderate conditions, there are periods of extreme heat or unusual cold.

Extreme Heat

Heat waves can produce:

• Several days in a row of 90°F+ highs
• Very warm, humid nights, especially in urban areas with more pavement and buildings

During heat waves, residents and visitors are encouraged to:

• Take advantage of air-conditioned spaces (such as malls, libraries, and public buildings).
• Limit strenuous outdoor work in the midday sun.
• Check for heat advisories and air quality alerts.

The City of Atlanta and Fulton County sometimes designate cooling locations during extreme heat periods; information is usually shared through local government channels and local news outlets.

Unusual Cold

Occasionally, strong cold fronts bring:

• Below-freezing temperatures at night
• Early-morning black ice on bridges and overpasses
• Rare events of wintry mix or snow

In these cases, Atlanta-area schools, businesses, and government offices may adjust hours for safety, and local transportation may be affected.

Air Quality and Weather in Atlanta

Weather conditions influence air quality in Atlanta:

• Warm, stagnant days can lead to higher ozone levels, triggering air quality alerts.
• Temperature inversions can trap pollutants closer to the ground.
• Spring pollen can be very high, affecting outdoor comfort for many people.

Residents often monitor air quality forecasts on hot summer days or when planning extended outdoor activity.

How Atlanta Weather Affects Daily Life

Commuting and Transportation

Atlanta’s weather interacts with an already busy traffic system:

• Rainy days typically mean slower commutes and more accidents.
• Thunderstorms can reduce visibility and create ponding on roads.
• Snow or ice, though rare, can cause major disruptions on interstates like I‑285, I‑75, I‑85, and I‑20.

Public transit, such as MARTA buses and trains, may be affected by severe weather, though trains often remain a more reliable option during heavy rain or minor winter events.

Outdoor Events, Sports, and Festivals

Atlanta is known for outdoor festivals, sports, and concerts, many of which are weather-sensitive:

• Spring and fall events often enjoy comfortable temperatures but must watch for passing storms.
• Summer events frequently plan around heat and lightning risks.
• Outdoor venues like Truist Park, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium’s open plaza areas, Piedmont Park, and Centennial Olympic Park routinely adjust for forecast conditions.

If you’re attending an outdoor event, it’s helpful to:

• Bring rain gear if storms are possible.
• Use sunscreen and stay hydrated in the summer.
• Check event social media or information lines during severe weather days.

Home and Neighborhood Considerations

For Atlanta residents, weather can influence:

• Landscaping choices: Many people select plants that tolerate heat, humidity, and periodic drought.
• Storm readiness: Securing loose outdoor items, cleaning gutters, and trimming tree branches near roofs are common preparations.
• Energy use: Air conditioning represents a major part of summer energy usage, while winter heating demand is relatively moderate compared with colder regions.

Helpful Local Weather Resources and Contacts

For accurate and up-to-date Atlanta weather information, residents and visitors commonly rely on:

• National Weather Service (NWS) – Peachtree City Office
  Serves the Atlanta metro area with forecasts and warnings.

• City of Atlanta – Office of Emergency Preparedness
  City Hall: 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  Main City Information Line: (404) 330‑6000

• Fulton County Government – Emergency Services & Alerts
  Fulton County Government Center: 141 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  Main Phone: (404) 612‑4000

These offices and agencies provide updates during severe weather, share preparedness guidance, and coordinate with local media to inform Atlanta residents.

Understanding weather in Atlanta, GA helps you plan everything from your commute to your weekend plans. With hot, humid summers, mild winters, and changeable spring and fall conditions, being prepared for heat, storms, and occasional winter surprises will make life in Atlanta more comfortable and predictable.