Atlanta, Georgia, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is witnessing a significant increase in summer duration, with temperatures lasting 10 to 15 days longer than in previous decades. A recent study reveals that cities across Georgia, including Atlanta, now experience about 12 extra days of summer compared to 30 years ago. The study, conducted by climatologist Brian Brettschneider, also underscores the public health implications due to the extended mosquito season, which raises the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. This alarming trend showcases the tangible effects of climate change on local weather patterns.
Atlanta, Georgia is experiencing a marked lengthening of summer as the effects of climate change become increasingly apparent. An analysis of historical weather data by climatologist Brian Brettschneider indicates that summer temperatures in Georgia cities now last 10 to 15 days longer than the traditional summer season defined by the calendar.
Brettschneider’s study, which was shared with The Washington Post, highlights that in Atlanta, summer now extends 12 days longer than it did 30 years ago. Similar trends are also observed in cities such as Marietta, Cartersville, Douglasville, Cumming, and Loganville, which have seen an additional 12 days of summer. Meanwhile, Canton reports a roughly 7-day extension, while Macon and Savannah experience increases of 6 and 14 days respectively.
The forecast for metro Atlanta as it approaches Labor Day—considered the unofficial end of summer—predicts a mix of storms and cooler temperatures, though these changes will not significantly alter the trend toward longer summers experienced over the past decades.
In conducting his analysis, Brettschneider compared the hottest 90-day periods from 1965 to 1994 against those from 1995 to 2024. The findings reveal that the southern U.S. and California have experienced the most significant increases in the length of summer days. Conversely, areas such as the Mid-Atlantic and Pacific Northwest have seen more moderate extensions, with the Midwest observing the least change in summer length.
Physical oceanographer Yuping Guan noted that the rate of climate change over the past 30 years has been faster than previously anticipated, correlating the consistent summer heat trends to overall climate data. Furthermore, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that the previous year and decade were recorded as the hottest, attributing the warming trend to greenhouse gases produced by human activities.
The implications of climate change extend beyond rising temperatures, impacting public health as well. Warmer temperatures have led to an extended mosquito season across the U.S., increasing the potential for virus outbreaks. Data over the last 40 years shows that more than two-thirds of the contiguous U.S. have experienced an increase in “mosquito days,” with the Northeast observing the most significant changes. Rising temperatures and humidity levels have created favorable conditions for mosquito survival and transmission rates.
Consequently, the broader areas are becoming more suitable for diseases typically spread by mosquitoes, including dengue and malaria. Currently, the U.S. reports around 3,200 cases of dengue and 2,000 cases of malaria annually, a trend being influenced by rising temperatures that extend mosquito seasons. Public health officials are raising alarms about the increasing frequency and severity of mosquito-borne diseases as climate changes continue to evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current trend regarding summer temperatures in Georgia?
Summer temperatures in Georgia are lasting longer than they did 30 years ago, with cities like Atlanta experiencing an extension of 12 days. This trend reflects a broader change influenced by climate change.
How has climate change affected mosquito populations in the U.S.?
Warmer temperatures have led to an extended mosquito season, particularly in the Northeast, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria.
What are the broader implications of these changes for public health?
Longer summers and warmer temperatures increase opportunities for mosquito populations to thrive, which could lead to a rise in diseases spread by mosquitoes, raising public health concerns.
Key Features of Climate Change Impact in Georgia
| City | Days Extended |
|---|---|
| Atlanta | 12 |
| Marietta | 12 |
| Cartersville | 12 |
| Douglasville | 12 |
| Cumming | 12 |
| Loganville | 12 |
| Canton | 7 |
| Macon | 6 |
| Savannah | 14 |
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Additional Resources
- The Washington Post: Mosquito Season and Climate Change
- Wikipedia: Climate Change
- Gothamist: MTA Update on G Trains
- Google Search: Public Health Implications of Climate Change
- People: Limb Lengthening Surgery Story
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Global Warming
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
