Drought Conditions Worsen in Georgia

Georgia, September 15, 2025

News Summary

Drought conditions in Georgia have worsened, affecting nearly 40% of the state, especially in Fulton, Douglas, Cobb, and Paulding counties. Despite a wet start to summer, rainfall has significantly decreased, with predictions indicating a dry October could become a record breaker. Current data shows severe drought areas increasing, highlighting the urgent need for effective water management strategies as communities face worsening conditions.

Atlanta, Georgia – Despite a wet start to the summer, drought conditions in Georgia have notably worsened, affecting nearly 40% of the state, particularly in areas such as Fulton, Douglas, Cobb, and Paulding counties. Recent weather data highlights a concerning trend: limited rainfall throughout September, despite heavy falls earlier in the season, which gives rise to predictions of further drought escalation.

June 2025 had nearly daily rainfall, suggesting an optimistic outlook for how summer conditions might progress. Following that pattern, early August saw a brief period of heavy rain, leading many residents to question the long-term drought prognosis. However, the favorable conditions seemed short-lived. By late summer, even routine garden watering became necessary, underscoring the shift in weather patterns.

As of September 9, data from the National Weather Service and the National Integrated Drought Information System signaled potential increases in drought levels in western Georgia. Notably, the September records have been starkly low, with most locations experiencing a lack of significant precipitation. Only on September 6 did thunderstorms briefly affect the region, bringing delays to the University of Georgia’s football game in Athens, where over 2 inches were reported, though areas like Atlanta saw only a mere 0.02 inches.

While east Georgia—including Athens—managed to fare better against drought conditions, northwest Georgia continues to struggle. Reports indicate severe drought regions have grown from 6% to 11% within a single week, particularly impacting areas such as Blue Ridge and Athens. Moderate drought levels have increased to 33% across parts of metro Atlanta, presenting a clear trend towards worsening drought conditions across the state.

Thompson’s long-range predictions still hold a “best case” scenario indicating some improvement in rainfall logistics through September 26; however, widespread and substantial rain remains elusive. Encouragingly, lakes such as Lake Lanier are being lowered in preparation for the spring rainy season, with current levels down more than 7 feet—a measurement reflective of the ongoing drought worries.

Moving into October 2025, data suggests it could become the driest month ever recorded in Atlanta, with Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport reporting only trace amounts of rain so far. With nearly 95% of the state classified as either “abnormally dry” or in “moderate drought,” the situation is becoming critical.

Forecasts for the next 7-10 days predict little to no improvement regarding drought conditions, as rainfall patterns remain unpredictable, affecting livelihoods, agriculture, and water supply in the region. General environmental assessments continue to reflect the urgent need for long-term water management strategies as Georgia’s drought outlook intensifies.

Key Takeaways

• Approximately 40% of Georgia is currently experiencing varying drought conditions.
• Severe drought areas increased significantly month-on-month in parts of the state.
• Predictions for the next few weeks show little to no substantial rainfall.
• Current forecasts threaten to mark October as the driest month in Atlanta’s recorded history.

FAQs

Chart: Drought Conditions in Georgia

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

• WSB Radio: Rapid Onset Flash Drought Conditions Building in Metro Atlanta
• 11Alive: Drought Not Back Despite 3-Week Dry Spell
• Fox 5 Atlanta: Drought Index Rising in North Georgia
• 11Alive: North Georgia Drought Conditions
• Wikipedia: Drought

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.