Atlanta, Georgia Weather: What to Expect All Year Long

Atlanta’s weather is one of the first things people ask about when they move here, visit, or plan outdoor events. The city’s climate is often summed up as hot, humid summers and mild winters, but the details matter—especially when you’re deciding what to wear, how to commute, or when to schedule travel and activities.

This guide breaks down Atlanta weather by season, typical temperatures, storms, and local tips so you know what to expect in the city, whether you live in Atlanta or are just passing through.

Atlanta’s Climate at a Glance

Atlanta is in the humid subtropical climate zone. That means:

• Hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms
• Mild to cool winters with occasional brief cold snaps
• Spring and fall that are comfortable but can be stormy
• Plenty of rain spread throughout the year, not just in one season

Here’s a simple overview of typical Atlanta weather by season:

Temperatures can vary year to year, but this gives a realistic sense of typical Atlanta conditions.

Winter in Atlanta (December–February)

Atlanta winters are short and generally mild compared to much of the U.S., but the weather can swing quickly.

Temperatures and Conditions

• Daytime highs: often in the 40s to 50s°F
• Overnight lows: commonly in the 30s°F, with occasional dips below freezing
• Snow and ice:
  • Snow is infrequent and usually light, but
  • Freezing rain and ice can cause major traffic issues when they occur

When cold air and moisture line up, Atlanta can see a mix of rain, sleet, or wet snow. Even small amounts of ice can lead to slippery roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.

What Locals Typically Do

• Keep a light to medium coat, hat, and gloves for cold mornings and nights
• Plan for layering—a sweater or jacket in the morning may not be needed by afternoon
• Watch for school and office delays on days with icy conditions

For road and weather-related alerts, residents often monitor updates from:

• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) – traffic and road conditions
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – for flight delays during winter storms

Spring in Atlanta (March–May)

Spring in Atlanta is beautiful but unpredictable.

Temperatures and Weather

• Highs: mostly in the 60s and 70s°F, climbing into the 80s by late spring
• Lows: in the 40s to 50s°F, getting milder over time
• Expect a mix of sunny, mild days and storms, especially later in the season

Rain is common, and strong thunderstorms can roll through, sometimes with:

• Heavy downpours
• Lightning
• Gusty winds
• Occasional hail

Pollen and Allergies

Atlanta is known for very high spring pollen levels, especially from:

• Pine trees
• Oaks and other hardwoods
• Grasses and weeds later in the season

You’ll often see a yellow dusting of pollen on cars, sidewalks, and outdoor furniture. Many residents:

• Check daily pollen counts
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen days
• Use car washes more often in spring

Clothing and Planning Tips

• Keep a light jacket or sweater handy for cooler mornings and evenings
• Expect to carry an umbrella or rain jacket—showers can be sudden
• Outdoor events in March–April often have a backup indoor plan due to storms

Summer in Atlanta (June–August)

Atlanta summers are hot, long, and humid, which shapes daily life in the city.

Temperature and Humidity

• Daytime highs: often in the upper-80s to mid-90s°F
• Overnight lows: frequently upper-60s to mid-70s°F
• Humidity: usually high, which can make it feel hotter than the actual temperature

You’ll often hear about the “heat index”—how hot it feels when humidity is factored in. Heat index values can climb well above the actual air temperature.

Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain

Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common in Atlanta summers. Typical patterns:

• Mornings: often sunny and calm
• Afternoon: clouds build, brief but intense storms develop
• Evening: storms move out, leaving steamy, muggy air

These storms can bring:

• Heavy rain in short bursts (localized flooding in low-lying areas)
• Frequent lightning
• Strong, gusty winds

Many Atlantans plan outdoor activities for early mornings or later evenings, then schedule indoor or shaded activities during mid-day.

Heat Safety and Daily Life

Locals often:

• Use light, breathable clothing
• Seek shade, air conditioning, and plenty of water during peak afternoon heat
• Time exercise—like jogging on the BeltLine or around Piedmont Park—for early or late in the day

The City of Atlanta and Fulton County may provide information about cooling centers during extreme heat events. Residents can check local government or community center information lines for locations and hours.

Fall in Atlanta (September–November)

Fall is many residents’ favorite season in Atlanta.

Temperatures and Humidity

• September: can still feel like summer—warm to hot, humid
• October: more comfortable, with highs in the 60s–70s°F and cooler nights
• November: noticeably cooler, with more days in the 50s–60s°F

Humidity gradually drops, making the air feel more comfortable, and skies tend to be clearer.

Foliage and Outdoor Events

Atlanta’s fall color is strong thanks to its mix of hardwood trees. Parks and popular areas like:

• Piedmont Park
• Atlanta BeltLine Eastside and Westside Trails
• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (just outside central Atlanta)

are popular for walks and outings in October and early November when the leaves change.

This is also a prime time for:

• Festivals
• Outdoor dining
• Sports events

Because the weather is usually stable and comfortable, many residents choose fall for home projects, travel, and weddings.

Rain, Storms, and Severe Weather in Atlanta

Atlanta gets regular rainfall throughout the year, without a single “rainy season,” but patterns do vary.

Typical Rain Patterns

• Frequent showers and storms in spring and summer, often in the afternoon
• Steady, lighter rain can be more common in fall and winter systems
• Rainfall can be heavy at times, leading to temporary street flooding

Drivers in Atlanta learn to watch:

• Low underpasses
• Areas near creeks and streams
• Roadside ditches that can fill quickly during downpours

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Atlanta experiences thunderstorms in all warm months, and lightning is a recurring risk. Common guidance in the area:

• If thunder is close, move indoors or into a car
• Avoid standing under isolated tall trees during storms
• Reschedule sports and park activities if storms are nearby

Tornadoes and Severe Weather Alerts

While Atlanta is not in the very highest tornado-risk region, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms do occur, especially in:

• Spring (March–May)
• Late fall (November)

Residents typically monitor weather alerts issued for Fulton County and the City of Atlanta. Common tools and sources include:

• Local TV and radio weather coverage
• Smartphone alerts from official weather warning systems
• Outdoor sirens in some parts of the metro area

When a tornado warning is issued, common recommended actions include moving indoors, away from windows, to a low-level interior space until the warning expires.

Atlanta and Tropical Weather

Atlanta is far from the coast, but remnants of tropical storms and hurricanes that hit the Gulf Coast or Atlantic can reach the city.

Effects can include:

• Heavy rain for a day or more
• Gusty winds strong enough to topple small trees or branches
• Power outages in some neighborhoods

This usually occurs during the Atlantic hurricane season (June–November), with late summer and early fall being the most active.

Residents often:

• Monitor storm tracks when a major system is in the news
• Secure outdoor items that could blow around
• Prepare for the possibility of brief power interruptions

Microclimates Within Atlanta

Even within the Atlanta area, weather can differ from place to place.

The Urban Heat Island Effect

Downtown and Midtown—areas with dense buildings, pavement, and limited tree cover—often stay warmer, especially at night, than:

• Leafier neighborhoods like Druid Hills, Virginia-Highland, or Buckhead
• Suburbs with more trees and open spaces

On summer nights, you might see warmer temperatures inside the urban core compared with nearby locations just outside the city.

Elevation and Terrain

Atlanta is sometimes called the “City in a Forest” and sits at a relatively high elevation for the Southeast. Hills, tree cover, and local terrain can influence:

• Fog formation in low spots
• Wind patterns around tall buildings
• Shading and temperature in heavily wooded neighborhoods

While the differences are usually modest, they can be noticeable when you move from dense city blocks to nearby residential areas.

Air Quality and Weather in Atlanta

Weather and air quality are closely connected in Atlanta.

Summer Ozone and Smog

Hot, stagnant summer days can lead to elevated ozone levels, which can affect people who are sensitive to air quality. On these days, you may see:

• Air quality alerts for the Atlanta area
• Guidance to limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon

Residents often check local air quality indexes before exercising outdoors on very hot, still days.

Pollen and Seasonal Irritants

• Spring: tree pollen is widespread
• Late spring and summer: grass pollen rises
• Late summer and fall: weed pollen (like ragweed) becomes more prominent

Weather patterns—especially wind, rain, and temperature swings—can raise or lower pollen counts from day to day.

How Weather Affects Daily Life in Atlanta

Atlanta’s weather has a noticeable impact on commuting, events, and routines.

Driving and Commuting

• Rain and thunderstorms can slow traffic on major roads like:
  • I‑75, I‑85, I‑285, and GA‑400
• Ice or snow events, though rare, can cause:
  • Road closures
  • Traffic delays
  • School and office schedule changes

Many residents plan extra time for commutes on days with heavy rain or strong storms.

Air Travel

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports, can experience:

• Thunderstorm-related delays in spring and summer
• Weather-related ground stops when storms are overhead
• Occasional winter weather delays for de-icing and runway treatment

Travelers are often advised to allow extra time for summer afternoon flights or during active storm periods.

Outdoor Events and Sports

Weather plays a role in:

• Braves games at Truist Park
• Events in Piedmont Park, Centennial Olympic Park, and on the Atlanta BeltLine
• College and high school sports across the metro area

Rain or lightning can cause postponements, and extreme heat can prompt changes in start times or extra hydration breaks.

Practical Tips for Atlanta Weather Year-Round

Here are quick, local-style tips for handling Atlanta’s changing weather:

• Winter 🧥

  • Keep a medium-weight coat and a few warm layers
  • Be cautious when ice is in the forecast—even light ice can cause major disruptions

• Spring 🌦️

  • Expect pollen; plan for extra car washes and closed windows if you are sensitive
  • Keep a compact umbrella or light rain jacket nearby

• Summer ☀️

  • Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening
  • Have water, sunscreen, and access to shade or A/C when out mid-day
  • Be ready for sudden thunderstorms in the afternoon

• Fall 🍂

  • Enjoy comfortable temperatures for festivals, hiking, and outdoor dining
  • Keep a light jacket as evenings turn cooler

Where Atlantans Commonly Get Weather Information

Residents in the Atlanta area typically rely on a mix of:

• Local TV weather coverage
• Radio updates during commutes
• Weather apps with location-based alerts for severe storms, tornado warnings, or flash flooding
• Official communications from:
  • City of Atlanta
  • Fulton County
  • Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for travel-related impacts

Checking these sources regularly, especially during spring storms, summer heat, and winter cold snaps, helps people stay ahead of changing conditions.

Understanding Atlanta, Georgia weather means planning for heat and humidity in the summer, mild but changeable winters, stormy springs, and comfortable falls. With a basic sense of these patterns, you can make smarter choices about commuting, outdoor plans, clothing, and travel throughout the year in Atlanta.