Atlanta is in for a wild weather ride this week, with a mix of sunshine, warmth, and a sudden cooldown by the weekend. The city will experience spring-like temperatures midweek, reaching as high as 76°F (24°C) on Wednesday, but don’t pack away those jackets just yet—a sharp temperature drop is on the way, bringing cooler air by Sunday.
This weather whiplash is due to shifting air masses, with warm southerly winds boosting temperatures early in the week before a cold front sweeps through, sending temperatures tumbling into the upper 50s by the weekend. For those planning outdoor activities, Wednesday and Saturday will be the warmest days, while Sunday will feel much cooler with brisk breezes.
What’s Causing This Drastic Temperature Swing?
The brief warm-up is being fueled by a strong high-pressure system over the Southeast, allowing warm, dry air to settle over Atlanta. But by Thursday, a cold front will push in from the north, replacing the warmth with cooler, drier air and slightly increasing cloud cover.
Adding to the mix, breezy conditions on Wednesday will create an elevated fire risk due to dry brush and low humidity levels. Residents are advised to avoid open flames and properly dispose of smoking materials to prevent fire hazards.
Atlanta 5-Day Weather Forecast
- Friday, February 28: Plenty of sunshine, with slightly warmer temperatures. High of 64°F (18°C), dipping to 38°F (3°C) overnight.
- Saturday, March 1: Sunny and breezy in the afternoon, making it the last warm day before the cooldown. High of 71°F (22°C), with a low of 41°F (5°C).
- Sunday, March 2: Much cooler with brilliant sunshine, but a high of only 57°F (14°C) and an overnight low of 40°F (4°C).
What This Means for Atlanta Residents
With warmer temperatures midweek, now is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the sun before cooler air moves in. Whether it’s a walk through Piedmont Park, a patio lunch, or a day exploring the BeltLine, Wednesday and Saturday will be the best days to be outdoors…