If you stepped outside this morning and felt like you had been transported to the Arctic, you’re not alone. Atlanta is experiencing an unusually harsh cold snap, with temperatures dropping to a bone-chilling 20°F (-6°C) overnight. This kind of deep freeze is rare for the region, and residents are feeling the effects as they bundle up against the icy conditions.
The culprit behind this frigid weather? A massive Arctic air mass that has pushed deep into the Southeastern United States, impacting millions from Texas to Georgia. And while the sun may be shining today, don’t be fooled—the cold isn’t going anywhere just yet.
What’s in Store for Atlanta’s Weather?
- Friday, February 21 – Expect mostly sunny skies, but temperatures will struggle to rise above 45°F (7°C). By nightfall, another sharp drop will bring lows back down to 24°F (-4°C).
- Saturday, February 22 – A slight warm-up begins, with a mix of sun and clouds and a high of 51°F (10°C). The low will still be a chilly 31°F (-1°C).
- Sunday, February 23 – Partly sunny and slightly warmer, with a daytime high of 55°F (13°C) before dropping to 32°F (0°C) at night.
- Monday, February 24 – A noticeable shift! Atlanta finally gets a break from the cold as temperatures climb to a pleasant 66°F (19°C), with a nighttime low of 42°F (5°C).
- Tuesday, February 25 – Spring-like warmth returns, with sunshine and highs reaching 71°F (21°C).
- Wednesday, February 26 – Another warm day, with plenty of sun and a high of 71°F (22°C), cooling to 47°F (8°C) overnight.
- Thursday, February 27 – A slight cooldown with the possibility of morning showers. Expect a high of 62°F (16°C) and a low of 38°F (3°C).
Why Is It So Cold?
This Arctic outbreak is part of a massive winter weather event that has affected more than 230 million Americans. Temperatures across much of the country have plummeted to record-breaking lows. Cities like Kansas City, Des Moines, and Minneapolis have reported wind chills below -20°F, and even Gulf Coast states like Texas are seeing temperatures in the 20s.
In Atlanta, this kind of cold is not just rare—it’s historic. While it won’t last forever, the extreme temperature swings could impact everything from road conditions to daily routines. The deep freeze will linger into the weekend before a significant warm-up begins on Sunday.
How to Stay Safe in This Unusual Cold
- Dress in layers – The wind chill can make it feel even colder than the actual temperature. Wearing multiple layers of clothing helps trap body heat.
- Protect your pipes – With temperatures dipping into the 20s, there’s a risk of frozen pipes. Let faucets drip slightly to prevent them from bursting.
- Check on vulnerable neighbors and pets – Make sure elderly residents and outdoor animals have a warm place to stay.
- Be careful on the roads – While Atlanta isn’t dealing with snow or ice, some areas may experience frost-covered roads in the early morning. Drive cautiously.
When Will the Cold End?
The good news is that this cold snap won’t last much longer. By Monday, temperatures will begin climbing back into the 60s, and by midweek, Atlanta will be basking in sunny 70-degree weather. However, the dramatic shift from freezing cold to spring-like warmth could create a rollercoaster of weather-related issues, including potential rain later in the week.
