Question 1

What is the sunniest time of year in Atlanta?

Accepted Answer

Atlanta enjoys the most sunshine during the late summer months, with August 2024 being the sunniest month of the year at 363.1 hours of sunshine. This translates to an impressive average of 11.7 hours of sunshine per day during August.

The summer season from June through August 2024 accumulated a total of 957.9 hours of sunshine, making it the best period for outdoor activities in Atlanta. During these sunny months, temperatures averaged 26.1°C (79.0°F), creating ideal conditions for everything from hiking at Stone Mountain to exploring the BeltLine.

October 2024 also proved remarkably sunny with 312.2 hours, offering excellent weather conditions for fall activities in Atlanta as temperatures cooled to a comfortable 17.7°C (63.9°F). This made early fall a pleasant alternative for visitors seeking sunny weather without the summer heat.

In contrast, November recorded the least sunshine with 185.1 hours, averaging just 6.2 hours of sunshine per day. Overall, Atlanta received 3,047.7 hours of sunshine throughout 2024, averaging 254 hours per month. For the best chances of sunny weather in Atlanta, plan your visit during August or opt for October if you prefer milder temperatures combined with abundant sunshine.

Question 2

How much total rainfall does Atlanta get per year?

Accepted Answer

Atlanta received a total of 1,456.9mm (57.4 inches) of rainfall in 2024, distributed unevenly throughout the year with significant monthly variation.

The wettest month in Atlanta during 2024 was July, which recorded 286.8mm (11.3 inches) of precipitation. This heavy summer rainfall is typical for the region, driven by afternoon thunderstorms and humid subtropical conditions. In stark contrast, October 2024 was exceptionally dry with only 3.7mm (0.1 inches) of rainfall.

Seasonal precipitation patterns showed summer (June through August) as the wettest period with 413.7mm (16.3 inches) total. Winter months (January, February, and December) followed closely with 395.8mm (15.6 inches). Spring contributed 365.9mm (14.4 inches), while fall was the driest season at 281.5mm (11.1 inches).

For residents and visitors, Atlanta's rainfall patterns mean carrying an umbrella is wise during summer months when sudden afternoon storms are common. The monthly average of 121.4mm (4.8 inches) masks considerable variability, so checking forecasts before outdoor activities is essential. The relatively dry fall season, particularly October, offers ideal conditions for outdoor events and exploring the city's parks and gardens.

Question 3

What is the average humidity in Atlanta throughout the year?

Accepted Answer

Atlanta experiences an average humidity of 69.5% throughout the year, making it a moderately humid city with notable seasonal variations. Based on 2024 weather data, humidity levels ranged from a low of 59.2% in June to a high of 77.8% in November.

The most humid periods in Atlanta occurred during November at 77.8% and July at 77.3%. Seven months of 2024 recorded humidity levels at or above 70%, including January, March, May, July, September, November, and December. This pattern reflects Atlanta's subtropical climate with moisture-laden air masses moving through the region.

Summer humidity in Atlanta averaged 67.2% from June through August in 2024. While July brought the highest summer humidity at 77.3%, June was actually the driest month of the entire year at just 59.2%. Winter months (December through February) saw slightly higher average humidity at 69.4%.

The 18.6 percentage point variation between the driest and most humid months shows that Atlanta's humidity can fluctuate significantly. For visitors and residents, the combination of high humidity and warm summer temperatures (averaging 26°C or 79°F from June to August) can make summer days feel considerably warmer than the actual temperature. The more moderate humidity levels in June make it one of the more comfortable months for outdoor activities in Atlanta despite the warming temperatures.

Question 4

How hot did Atlanta get in summer 2024?

Accepted Answer

Atlanta reached a scorching peak of 37.0°C (98.6°F) during summer 2024, with the hottest day occurring on June 26th. The city experienced consistently warm conditions throughout the season, with average daily highs of 31.9°C (89.5°F).

The summer heat in Atlanta was intense and persistent. Out of 92 summer days from June through August, 69 days saw temperatures reach or exceed 30°C (86°F). Particularly hot stretches included 13 days above 35°C (95°F) and 6 days at or above 36°C (97°F). June proved to be the hottest month on average, with daily highs averaging 32.3°C (90.2°F).

Nighttime offered only moderate relief during summer 2024, with lows averaging 20.7°C (69.2°F). The combination of high daytime temperatures and warm nights created classic Atlanta summer conditions that residents are familiar with. For visitors planning outdoor activities during Atlanta's summer months, early morning or evening hours provide the most comfortable temperatures, while midday heat can be challenging for extended outdoor exposure.

Question 5

How cold does Atlanta get in winter?

Accepted Answer

Atlanta experiences mild winters with occasional cold snaps, averaging daily lows around 2°C (36°F) during the winter months of January, February, and December.

In 2024, Atlanta's coldest temperature reached -10.9°C (12.4°F) on January 17th during an Arctic cold snap. January was the chilliest month, with average lows dipping just below freezing at -0.1°C (31.8°F) and average highs around 11°C (52°F). December 2024 saw similar patterns with average lows of 2.5°C (36.6°F), while February warmed noticeably with average temperatures climbing to nearly 10°C (50°F).

Throughout winter 2024, Atlanta recorded 35 days where temperatures dropped below freezing overnight. However, daytime highs typically remained well above freezing, with only a single day where the high temperature stayed below 0°C (32°F). This pattern reflects Atlanta's characteristic winter climate—cold nights followed by milder afternoons.

Winter visitors to Atlanta should prepare for variable conditions. While average winter highs hover around 13°C (56°F), temperatures can swing dramatically. The warmest winter day in 2024 reached 24.9°C (77°F) on February 28th, showcasing the city's occasional warm spells. Layered clothing is essential for navigating Atlanta's winter weather, as morning frost can give way to comfortable afternoon conditions within hours.

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FAQ

What is the sunniest time of year in Atlanta?

How much total rainfall does Atlanta get per year?

What is the average humidity in Atlanta throughout the year?

How hot did Atlanta get in summer 2024?

How cold does Atlanta get in winter?