Atlanta, Georgia Weather Year-Round: What to Expect in Every Season

Atlanta’s weather is famously changeable, but it also follows some clear patterns. If you live in Atlanta, are planning a move, or are visiting for a specific time of year, understanding the year-round climate can help you pack smart, plan activities, and avoid surprises.

Below is a season-by-season guide to Atlanta, Georgia weather with local context, monthly trends, and practical tips.

Atlanta’s Climate at a Glance

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, which generally means:

• Mild winters
• Long, warm-to-hot summers
• Short, pleasant spring and fall seasons
• Humidity and thunderstorms, especially in warm months

Here’s a simplified overview of typical conditions by season:

Conditions can swing above or below these ranges during unusual weather patterns, but this table reflects typical expectations.

Winter in Atlanta (December–February)

Winters in Atlanta are relatively mild compared to much of the U.S., but they can be unpredictable.

Temperatures and Feel

• Daytime highs: Often in the upper 40s to mid-50s°F
• Nighttime lows: Commonly in the upper 20s to mid-30s°F
• Periodic cold snaps can send temperatures below freezing, especially at night.
• Wind and damp air can make it feel colder than the actual temperature, especially downtown and in open areas like Piedmont Park.

Rain, Snow, and Ice

• Rain is more common than snow. Winter storms can bring cold, soaking rain.
• Snow in Atlanta is uncommon, and when it does fall, accumulations are usually light.
• More of a concern is freezing rain and ice, which can create hazardous road conditions and power outages, especially in the northern suburbs and hilly areas.

Local Tips for Winter in Atlanta

• Layer up: a light-to-medium winter coat, sweaters, and water-resistant footwear are practical.
• Ice days: even a small amount of ice can disrupt traffic and lead to school and office closures.
• If you’re visiting: pack a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, especially for evenings and early mornings.

For real-time updates, many residents rely on the National Weather Service – Peachtree City Forecast Office, which serves metro Atlanta:

• Address: 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
• Phone: (770) 486-1133

Spring in Atlanta (March–May)

Spring is one of the most pleasant times of year in Atlanta—mild temperatures, longer days, and blooming trees and flowers throughout neighborhoods and parks.

Temperatures and Patterns

• March: Cool to mild, highs often in the 60s°F, chilly nights.
• April: Comfortable days in the 70s°F are common.
• May: Feels more like early summer, with highs frequently in the upper 70s to low 80s°F.

Humidity begins to increase as you move into late spring, and afternoon showers and thunderstorms become more frequent.

Rain and Thunderstorms

• Spring is a transition season, so weather can swing from sunny and warm to cloudy and stormy.
• Thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and occasional gusty winds.
• Severe weather (including strong storms and rare tornadoes) is possible, especially in March and April, though not an everyday occurrence.

Pollen and Air Quality

Atlanta is known for its spring pollen, especially from pine, oak, and other trees:

• Cars, sidewalks, and outdoor furniture often get covered in a yellow-green pollen layer.
• People with seasonal sensitivities often notice symptoms in March and April, sometimes into May.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially around Piedmont Park, the Atlanta BeltLine, or local neighborhoods with mature trees, you may want to plan for the pollen season (closing windows, rinsing off after being outside, etc.).

Local Tips for Spring

• 🌸 Outdoor plans: This is a great time for festivals, Braves games, and park visits—just keep a light jacket for cooler evenings.
• ☔ Rain preparedness: Have an umbrella or light rain jacket handy, especially for afternoon plans.
• If strong storms are forecast, local emergency management information is available through:
  • Fulton County Emergency Management Agency
    • 130 Peachtree Street SW, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30303
    • Phone: (404) 612-5660

Summer in Atlanta (June–August)

Summer in Atlanta is hot, humid, and long, and this is the season when the city really earns its “Hotlanta” nickname.

Temperatures and Humidity

• Daytime highs: Commonly in the upper 80s to mid-90s°F
• Nighttime lows: Often in the upper 60s to mid-70s°F
• Humidity: Frequently high, which can make it feel noticeably hotter than the actual temperature.

Heat waves can push heat index values (the “feels-like” temperature) well into the upper 90s or higher, especially in the urban core.

Rain and Thunderstorms

• Afternoon thunderstorms are very common in summer.
• These storms can develop quickly, bringing:
  • Heavy downpours
  • Frequent lightning
  • Gusty winds
• Storms are often short-lived, with sunshine earlier or later in the day.

Localized flooding can occur in low-lying or poor-drainage areas during heavy rain. Downtown streets and underpasses can be particularly affected during intense storms.

Heat Safety and Comfort

Because of the heat and humidity, locals often adjust routines:

• Outdoor exercise (running the BeltLine, walking at Piedmont Park, or hiking nearby trails) is more comfortable in early morning or near sunset.
• Light, breathable clothing, hats, and water bottles are common summer staples.
• Many public spaces and transit options (like MARTA stations) are air-conditioned, which helps with heat breaks.

Residents can find information on heat advisories, cooling options, and preparedness through:

• City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Emergency Preparedness
  • 72 Marietta Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Main City Info Line: (404) 330-6000

Local Tips for Summer

• 😎 Plan outdoor sightseeing (zoo, botanical garden, walking tours) for mornings.
• ⛈ Always check the day’s forecast—pop-up storms can affect late-afternoon plans.
• Many Atlantans keep a small umbrella in their bag or car all summer.

Fall in Atlanta (September–November)

Fall is often considered the most comfortable season in Atlanta: less humidity, pleasant temperatures, and colorful foliage.

Temperatures and Comfort

• September: Still warm, with highs often in the 80s°F, but slightly less humid than peak summer.
• October: Typically very pleasant, with highs in the 70s°F and cooler, crisp nights.
• November: Cooler, with highs often in the 60s°F and chilly mornings and evenings.

Humidity generally drops, and the air feels drier and more comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Rain and Storms

• Rain does occur, but prolonged stretches of pleasant, dry weather are common.
• Severe storms are less frequent than in spring and summer, but occasional systems can bring wind and rain.

Fall Foliage and Outdoor Activities

Trees around Grant Park, Inman Park, Midtown, and surrounding suburbs turn shades of yellow, orange, and red. Nearby hiking areas north of the city can see especially vibrant colors later in the fall.

This season is popular for:

• Outdoor festivals and concerts
• Football games
• Patio dining and evening walks

Local Tips for Fall

• 🍂 Pack layers: afternoons are warm, but mornings and evenings can feel cool.
• Fall is a good time to tackle yard work or home projects that were too hot to do in summer.
• This is also a popular time for visitors, so fall weekends can be busy in major attractions and parks.

Month-by-Month Snapshot of Atlanta Weather

Here’s a quick month-based view of what you can usually expect:

• January: Cool to cold; risk of freezing nights; mostly rain, rare snow/ice.
• February: Similar to January but can feel slightly less harsh; still winter-like.
• March: Transition to spring; more mild days; rain and some storms.
• April: Pleasant and mild; noticeable pollen; storms possible.
• May: Warm, often very comfortable; start of more summer-like days.
• June: Hotter and more humid; frequent afternoon storms.
• July: Peak heat and humidity; common thunderstorms.
• August: Similar to July; hot, muggy, with frequent storms.
• September: Warm but gradually less humid; beginning of fall feel.
• October: Comfortable days, cooler nights; low humidity, popular outdoor month.
• November: Cooler, late-fall feel; crisp mornings, mild afternoons.
• December: Mild to cool; start of winter patterns, mostly rain.

How Atlanta’s Weather Affects Daily Life

Getting Around the City

• Driving: Sudden storms can reduce visibility and create slick roads, especially during summer. In winter, even a small amount of ice can create widespread travel issues.
• Transit: MARTA trains and buses operate in most weather, though severe conditions may cause delays.
• Walking and biking: The Atlanta BeltLine and other trails are heavily used except on the hottest afternoons of summer or during storms.

Housing and Homes

• Many homes rely on air conditioning for much of the year, especially from late spring through early fall.
• Humidity can affect indoor comfort, prompting many residents to use dehumidification or air conditioning even on moderately warm days.
• Rain and storms mean gutters, drainage, and roofing are important maintenance concerns.

Where Atlantans Get Weather Information

Many Atlanta residents combine several resources for staying weather-aware:

• National Weather Service – Peachtree City (serving metro Atlanta)

  • 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
  • Phone: (770) 486-1133

• Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS)

  • 935 E. Confederate Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
  • Phone: (404) 635-7000

Local TV weather, radio, and mobile apps are also widely used for short-term forecasts, severe weather alerts, and radar.

Key Takeaways: Atlanta Weather Year-Round

• Atlanta has mild winters, hot, humid summers, and short but pleasant spring and fall seasons.
• Rain and thunderstorms are common, especially from late spring through summer.
• Snow and ice are rare, but when they do occur, they can significantly affect roads and services.
• Spring brings heavy pollen, while summer brings heat and humidity that shape daily routines.
• Fall is often the most comfortable season, with dry, pleasant weather that’s ideal for outdoor life.

Whether you’re relocating, planning a visit, or simply adjusting your yearly routine, understanding Atlanta’s weather patterns makes it much easier to plan your clothing, commuting, outdoor plans, and home comfort throughout the year.