Atlanta, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Drought conditions are worsening in metro Atlanta and north Georgia, with September 2023 recorded as the driest in two decades. While some areas experienced rainfall, metro Atlanta is starting October with a significant deficit. The forecast predicts little relief in the coming week, raising concerns about fire risks and further drought escalation. Officials emphasize compliance with burn bans to mitigate wildfire dangers as the dry spell continues.
Atlanta
Drought conditions persist across metro Atlanta and north Georgia, according to the latest Drought Monitor update, which indicates that drought is expanding in certain parts of the state. While some areas of north Georgia saw several inches of rain last month, metro Atlanta is starting October with a significant rainfall deficit.
September 2023 recorded only 0.16 inches of rain in Atlanta, marking it as the 5th driest September on record and the driest in the last two decades. The average rainfall for September in Atlanta is typically 3.82 inches. As a result, much of metro Atlanta remains classified under a Level 1 ‘Moderate’ Drought. In contrast, locations such as Columbus and parts of far south and southwestern Georgia are facing more severe drought conditions.
Looking ahead, dry weather is expected to persist through the beginning of the upcoming weekend. However, moisture levels are predicted to increase starting Sunday, with rainfall forecasts varying across the region—north Georgia may see between 0.1 to 1 inch, while southeastern Georgia could receive between 1 to 3 inches by Wednesday.
The current dry spell follows a summer trend where consistent rainfall helped mitigate drought conditions through July and August. Despite these short-term improvements, soil conditions are deteriorating rapidly as the region transitions into the dry fall months. Most rainfall in September 2023 took place on the sixth day of the month, failing to alleviate the drought significantly across the Atlanta area. Interestingly, areas like Athens experienced a heavier downpour on the same day, revealing varying drought conditions within the state.
Authorities from the National Weather Service and the National Integrated Drought Information System have raised concerns about the potential for increased drought levels in western Georgia, which are already classified under Moderate (D1) Drought conditions as of the September 16 Drought Monitor. A concerning trend called a flash drought indicates a rapid two-category degradation in conditions, raising the possibility of further challenges associated with drought.
In light of these conditions, Drought Information Statements may be issued should a county escalate to D3 Extreme Drought levels. Current forecasts suggest little to no rainfall over the next week, which will worsen existing drought circumstances. Furthermore, areas in western Georgia may require an estimated 4 to 5 inches of rainfall within the next four weeks to see any significant improvement.
Due to ongoing dry conditions, officials are discouraging outdoor burning and advising residents to comply with local burn bans to mitigate the risk of wildfires. The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests in particular have reported high fire danger levels, attributed to dry vegetation and declining humidity. The Georgia Forestry Commission has already suspended burn permits in several counties due to these hazardous conditions.
The anticipated weather from Tuesday through Saturday includes increasing fire danger as humidity falls and winds pick up. Currently, about 23% of Georgia is experiencing drought conditions, with an additional 35% classified as abnormally dry. To minimize fire risks, recommendations for residents include avoiding all outdoor burning, using equipment cautiously, and creating defensible spaces around properties by clearing flammable materials and trimming tree branches from rooftops.
Early detection of fires is essential, and the community is encouraged to report any unattended fires promptly. As for the immediate weather outlook in Metro Atlanta, mostly sunny skies and highs in the 70s are expected throughout the week, with significant rainfall predicted Sunday night into Monday, which may bring some relief from ongoing drought conditions.
FAQs
What conditions are currently in metro Atlanta and north Georgia?
Drought conditions persist across metro Atlanta and north Georgia, with much of the region classified under a Level 1 ‘Moderate’ Drought.
What was the rainfall recorded in September 2023 for Atlanta?
Atlanta recorded only 0.16 inches of rain in September 2023, making it the 5th driest September on record and the driest in two decades.
What are the drought predictions for the upcoming week?
Current forecasts suggest little to no rainfall is expected over the next week, worsening drought conditions. However, moisture levels are anticipated to increase starting Sunday.
What measures are being advised to mitigate fire risks?
Residents are advised to comply with local burn bans, avoid outdoor burning, and maintain defensible spaces around properties.
| Region | Rainfall (inches) in September | Drought Classification | Fire Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Atlanta | 0.16 | Level 1 Moderate Drought | High |
| North Georgia | Varied | Some areas with severe drought conditions | Moderate to High |
| Western Georgia | Not specified | More severe drought conditions | High |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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North Georgia Faces One of Its Driest Septembers
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Fire risk increases in Metro Atlanta amid ongoing drought
- Wikipedia: Drought
- WSB Radio: Moderate drought conditions developing in Metro Atlanta
- Google Search: Drought Georgia
- WSBTV: Update on drought conditions across North GA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drought
- Fox5 Atlanta: Heightened wildfire risk in Georgia
- Google News: Fire risk Georgia
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.
