Atlanta, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is now officially in moderate drought conditions, as per the latest Drought Monitor. Several counties are experiencing level 1 drought, with potential for worsening conditions without significant rainfall. Residents are urged to conserve water, and impacts on agriculture, particularly peanut crops, are notable. The area is witnessing significant variability in rainfall, leading to concerns over crop health and water supplies. Emergency loans have been made available to farmers affected by this crisis. While some relief may come from tropical moisture, forecasts suggest dry conditions could continue into winter.
Atlanta has been officially declared under moderate drought conditions, following the latest Drought Monitor released on September 18. Areas in Bartow, Carroll, Cherokee, Cobb, Coweta, Fayette, Fulton, and Paulding counties are designated as experiencing a Level 1 “Moderate” drought. The remainder of metro Atlanta is classified under “Abnormally Dry” conditions, signaling potential further drought development if rain is not received.
The drought conditions extend beyond metro Atlanta, affecting West-Central and Southwest Georgia, particularly near Columbus. State Climatologist Bill Murphey highlighted that though the drought is not severe at this time, quick-drying conditions could emerge if the current trend continues.
Residents are advised on water conservation, promoting adequate watering practices for plants and lawns. It is recommended to provide a thorough soaking every few days rather than small amounts daily. Currently, agricultural production and streamflow are impacted, although no water restrictions have been mandated.
The variability in rainfall has been stark; Columbus has received just 39% of its normal rainfall over the past 90 days, while Athens has seen a 165% surplus. At Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, only 0.02 inches of rain has been recorded in September, potentially leading to the driest September on record.
In Southwest Georgia, particularly affecting peanut crops, soil dryness is significant. The harvesting process is being impeded due to the hard, crusty ground, which complicates the process of upturning plants to collect nuts. Additionally, cattle producers are facing problems with halted pasture growth, leading to the early use of winter hay supplies.
Farmers are under severe stress due to unpredictable weather patterns, market concerns, and escalating production costs. A study indicated that nearly 1 in 3 farmers consider suicide monthly due to these pressures. The USDA has declared over 30 counties, including 10 in metro Atlanta, as “primary natural disaster areas,” allowing farmers in these regions to apply for emergency loans aimed at aiding recovery.
The drought has evolved from moderate to exceptional levels, causing considerable crop losses and delaying harvests, impacting approximately 5.4 million Georgians. The recent heat wave and drought have raised concerns over increased fire risks and impacts on forest ecosystems.
There may be potential relief from drought conditions next week, fueled by expected tropical moisture. However, long-term forecasts suggest that dry conditions may persist into winter, particularly with signs of La Niña developing.
Officials are encouraging sensible water use as metro Atlanta counties begin implementing localized watering restrictions to help manage the ongoing situation.
FAQ
What are the current drought conditions in metro Atlanta?
Drought conditions have returned to metro Atlanta, as reported in the latest Drought Monitor released on September 18. Parts of Bartow, Carroll, Cherokee, Cobb, Coweta, Fayette, Fulton, and Paulding counties are designated as experiencing a Level 1 “Moderate” drought.
How has the drought impacted agriculture in Georgia?
Current areas of impact from the drought include agricultural production and streamflow. Peanut crops are suffering due to the dry soil conditions; the harvesting process is impeded by crusty ground making it difficult to upturn plants for nut collection.
Are there any water restrictions in place?
No water restrictions have been mandated at this time, but officials encourage sensible water use as metro Atlanta counties begin implementing localized watering restrictions.
What is the likelihood of relief from the drought?
There may be potential relief from drought conditions next week with tropical moisture expected; however, long-term forecasts indicate a possibility of continued dry conditions into winter, especially with La Niña indicators.
Key Features of Drought Conditions in Metro Atlanta
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Drought Level | Level 1 “Moderate” drought in specific counties |
| Rainfall variation | Columbus at 39% of normal, Athens at 165% surplus |
| Impact on crops | Significant difficulty for peanut harvesting and cattle feed |
| Psychological effects | 1 in 3 farmers consider suicide monthly due to stress |
| Government aid | Emergency loans available for designated natural disaster areas |
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Additional Resources
- 11 Alive: Drought Impacts on Metro Atlanta Farmers
- SciTechDaily: Record-Breaking Dry Spell
- Atlanta News First: Metro Atlanta Counties Declared Natural Disaster Zones
- AJC: Crop Losses and Forest Fires Feared as Drought Spreads
- Wikipedia
- Encyclopedia Britannica
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.
