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

If you’ll be in Atlanta, Georgia in February, you can expect a mix of cool, damp days, a few cold snaps, and some surprisingly mild afternoons. February is still winter in Atlanta, but it often feels like a slow transition toward spring rather than deep cold.

This guide walks through typical February temperatures, rain and storms, what locals know about ice and snow risks, and how to pack and plan your activities around Atlanta’s late-winter weather.

Typical Atlanta Weather in February

February is one of Atlanta’s cooler months, but it’s rarely bitterly cold for long.

Average Temperatures

Most years, February in Atlanta looks roughly like this:

Key points for February temperatures:

• Freezing temperatures (32°F or below) still happen, especially overnight.
• Afternoons can be pleasant, sometimes reaching the low 60s°F on milder days.
• Short, sharp cold snaps can occasionally bring highs only in the 30s or low 40s°F.

If you’re visiting from a colder climate, Atlanta in February may feel relatively mild. If you’re used to warm weather, you’ll want real winter layers.

Rain, Clouds, and Humidity

February is often damp and gray, even when it’s not actively raining.

• Expect frequent clouds and partly overcast days.
• Light to moderate rain showers are common.
• Periods of steady rain can move through with passing weather systems.

Humidity levels can make cool days feel raw and chilly, especially when it’s damp and breezy. A day in the upper 40s°F with drizzle often feels colder than the number suggests, so windproof and water-resistant outerwear is useful.

Does It Snow in Atlanta in February?

Snow in Atlanta is possible but not guaranteed in February.

Normal Pattern

• Many years see little to no snow accumulation in February.
• When snow does fall, it’s often light and may melt quickly, especially on main roads and in the afternoon sun.
• Occasionally, a stronger winter system brings a few inches of snow to parts of the metro area.

Ice and “Wintry Mix” Risks

More disruptive than snow is freezing rain and sleet:

• A “wintry mix” of freezing rain, sleet, and wet snow can create hazardous conditions.
• Even a thin layer of ice can cause major issues on metro Atlanta’s highways, bridges, and overpasses.
• Schools, businesses, and local government offices may open late or close for safety during icy conditions.

Because these events are relatively infrequent, they can still cause significant travel disruption when they do occur.

Severe Weather and Storms in February

Atlanta’s springlike severe weather season usually peaks later, but February is often the start of more active patterns.

You may encounter:

• Strong, gusty winds with passing cold fronts
• Thunderstorms, some with heavy rain and lightning
• Isolated severe thunderstorms, especially late in the month, sometimes producing:
  • Damaging wind gusts
  • Small hail
  • Brief tornadoes in the broader North Georgia region

While major severe weather outbreaks are not an everyday occurrence, it’s sensible to keep an eye on forecasts, especially if you’ll be outdoors, driving long distances, or attending large events.

Daylight and Sun in Atlanta in February

Daylight is still limited in February but steadily increasing toward spring.

• Sunrise: Generally in the 7:20–7:10 a.m. range early in the month, getting earlier toward March.
• Sunset: Usually around 6:00–6:30 p.m. as the month goes on.

What this means for daily life:

• Morning and evening commutes may still be in the dark or low light, which can be important for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
• Outdoor activities are often best planned for late morning through mid-afternoon, when it’s both brightest and mildest.

Even on cooler days, the sun can feel relatively strong. If you’ll be outside for hours (walking the BeltLine, visiting parks, or at outdoor events), basic sun protection can still be useful.

What to Wear in Atlanta in February

Successfully dressing for Atlanta’s February weather is about layers and flexibility.

Essential Clothing

Consider packing or wearing:

• Base layer: T‑shirts or long-sleeve tops you can keep on indoors.
• Mid layer: Light sweaters, fleece, or pullovers for added warmth.
• Outer layer: A medium-weight jacket or light coat. A water-resistant shell is helpful for rainy days.
• Pants: Jeans or other long pants most days; shorts are rarely practical.
• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes or boots with good traction for wet sidewalks and possible chilly mornings.

Helpful Extras

• Compact umbrella or waterproof hooded jacket
• Scarf, hat, and light gloves for early mornings, late nights, or windy days
• Warm socks if you’ll be outside for long stretches (sporting events, outdoor work, or activities)

Locals often wear layers they can peel off during a sunny afternoon and put back on after sunset.

Driving and Commuting in February Weather

Most February days are fine for driving, but there are a few specific concerns Atlanta residents and visitors should keep in mind.

Rain and Wet Roads

• Heavy rain can lead to ponding and standing water on roads, especially on interstates like I‑75, I‑85, I‑20, and the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85).
• Visibility may drop quickly in downpours, particularly at night and during rush hour.
• Give yourself extra travel time on rainy days and avoid sudden lane changes on slick pavement.

Ice and Snow Days

When wintry weather is possible:

• Bridges and overpasses often freeze first (for example, interchanges around major connectors and elevated portions of highways).
• Even brief icing can trigger road closures or major slowdowns across the metro.
• Many Atlantans who can will avoid driving during icy conditions, especially in hilly neighborhoods.

If you must drive in wintry conditions, check local traffic and road updates before heading out, and consider major surface streets rather than steep side roads.

Outdoor Activities and Events in February

You can still enjoy plenty of outdoor time in Atlanta in February, especially on milder days.

What’s Comfortable Outdoors

On typical February afternoons:

• Walking the Atlanta BeltLine, exploring Piedmont Park, or visiting intown neighborhoods is usually comfortable with a light to medium jacket.
• Some days may feel springlike, encouraging patio dining and light outdoor exercise.
• Colder, windy, or wet days are better suited to shorter walks or mostly indoor plans.

Planning Around Weather

To make the most of your time:

• For flexible plans (walks, parks, outdoor shopping districts), choose the warmest, driest day in your stay or your week.
• Keep a backup indoor option (museums, indoor attractions, shopping centers) in case a cold front or rain moves in.
• If you’re attending outdoor events or festivals, check for weather-related schedule changes on the morning of the event.

Staying Informed: Local Weather Resources

Because February can swing from mild to wintry within a few days, it helps to keep up with local forecasts and alerts.

Local Forecasts and Alerts

In Atlanta, residents commonly rely on:

• Local TV and radio stations for neighborhood-level forecasts and school/business closing information.
• Weather apps or smartphone alerts for real-time updates on rain, storms, or severe weather watches and warnings.

For official watches and warnings affecting Atlanta and Fulton County, regional alerts are issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) office serving North and Central Georgia, located in Peachtree City:

• National Weather Service – Peachtree City Office
  4 Falcon Drive
  Peachtree City, GA 30269

Local Emergency Management

For broader preparedness information affecting the Atlanta area, residents can refer to:

• Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency (AFCEMA)
  130 Peachtree Street SW, Suite 1108
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone (City of Atlanta customer service line): (404) 330‑6000

These organizations provide official guidance on severe storms, winter weather, and other hazards that may occasionally affect February conditions.

Tips for Visitors Coming to Atlanta in February

If you’re traveling to Atlanta during February, a bit of planning goes a long way.

Packing Checklist ✅

• Medium-weight jacket or coat
• Layerable tops (short- and long-sleeve)
• Long pants and comfortable closed-toe shoes
• Umbrella or rain jacket
• Light gloves, hat, and scarf (especially if you’re sensitive to cold)

Planning Your Itinerary

• Build your schedule to be flexible around rainy or colder days.
• Reserve outdoor-heavy activities (walking tours, BeltLine, parks, zoo) for the milder, drier forecast days.
• On cooler or wet days, focus on indoor attractions such as museums, aquariums, historic sites, and indoor markets.

Key Takeaways About Atlanta Weather in February

• February in Atlanta is cool and often damp, but not typically severe for long stretches.
• Expect morning lows around the 30s–40s°F and afternoon highs generally in the 50s°F, with occasional warmer or colder days.
• Rain is common, and while snow is less frequent, ice and wintry mix events can occur and may disrupt travel.
• Layered clothing, a light to medium jacket, and rain protection will cover most February conditions.
• Keeping up with local forecasts and any winter or storm alerts helps you plan commutes, travel, and outdoor activities effectively.

With a bit of preparation and flexible planning, February in Atlanta can be a comfortable—and sometimes surprisingly pleasant—time to be in the city.