Atlanta, GA, December 24, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta has officially set a new record for the warmest Christmas Eve, reaching a high of 78 degrees. This surpassed the previous record of 73 degrees set in 2016. The National Weather Service confirmed a high of 76 degrees, with expectations of continued warm temperatures into Christmas Day. The typical December weather has been replaced by unusually high temperatures, with historical data showing that the coldest high was 17 degrees in 1983. Rain is likely on Sunday as a cold front approaches, but current trends may lead to 2023 being one of the warmest Christmases on record.
Atlanta Experiences Record-Breaking Christmas Eve Temperatures
Atlanta officially broke the record for the warmest Christmas Eve ever with a preliminary high temperature of 78 degrees. This surpassed the previous record set in 2016, which recorded a high of 73 degrees. The National Weather Service confirmed that temperatures in Atlanta reached 76 degrees, thus breaking the 2016 record.
High temperatures are also expected to continue into Christmas Day, with forecasts indicating temperatures will remain in the 70s. Historical data shows the coldest high temperature recorded on Christmas Day in Atlanta was 17 degrees in 1983. Current forecasts suggest that Christmas Day could tie or break record high temperatures, with expected highs projected to be in the mid to upper 70s.
Across much of Georgia, high temperatures are expected to stay in the 70s, while only the highest elevations may experience temperatures reaching the 60s. The warm weather pattern is anticipated to persist into the weekend. However, as a cold front is predicted to move in, there is a 20 to 30 percent chance of rain starting Sunday.
This year’s warm weather could position 2023 among the top three warmest Christmases on record for the region. Over the last decade, previous Christmas high records indicate that temperatures have mostly remained below 70 degrees.
The unseasonably warm conditions this year contradict the typical December climate, which usually calls for cooler weather better suited for enjoying hot chocolate by the fire. According to meteorologists, this might lead to residents wearing shorts on Christmas Day.
Looking ahead, a significant weather pattern change is expected next week, with predictions of dropping temperatures across the region.
Key Weather Facts for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
- Christmas Eve 2023 Preliminary High: 78 degrees
- Previous Record (2016): 73 degrees
- National Weather Service Confirmation: 76 degrees
- Expected Christmas Day Temperatures: Mid to upper 70s
- Coldest Christmas Day Recorded: 17 degrees in 1983
- Forecast Rain Chance: 20 to 30 percent starting Sunday
- Trend over the Decade: Temperatures mostly below 70 degrees
Forecast Expectations
The warm weather is expected to continue into the weekend, with the possibility of rain on Sunday due to an approaching cold front. By next week, a significant drop in temperatures is anticipated, marking a departure from the unusually high Christmas temperatures.
FAQ Section
What was the temperature on Christmas Eve in Atlanta this year?
The preliminary high temperature recorded was 78 degrees.
What was the previous record temperature for Christmas Eve in Atlanta?
The previous record was set in 2016 at 73 degrees.
What are the expected temperatures for Christmas Day in Atlanta?
Forecasts for Christmas Day show highs in the mid to upper 70s.
What was the coldest high temperature recorded on Christmas Day in Atlanta?
The coldest high temperature historically recorded on Christmas Day in Atlanta was 17 degrees in 1983.
Will there be rain on Christmas Day?
There is a 20 to 30 percent chance of rain starting Sunday as a cold front moves in.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Christmas Eve 2023 Temperature | 78 degrees |
| Previous Record Temperature | 73 degrees (2016) |
| Christmas Day Forecast | Mid to upper 70s |
| Coldest Recorded Christmas Day | 17 degrees (1983) |
| Forecast Rain Chance | 20 to 30 percent |
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Record Broken Atlanta Warmest Christmas Eve Ever
- AJC: Metro Atlanta’s Getting a Toasty Weather Treat for Christmas
- Atlanta News First: Record Warmth Today Continues Into Christmas
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Atlanta Weather Christmas Day Forecast Record Warmth
- USA Today: When is the Last Time There Was Snow in Atlanta on Christmas Day?
- Wikipedia: Weather in Atlanta
- Google Search: Atlanta Weather
- Google Scholar: Climate Change Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Climate in Georgia
- Google News: Atlanta Weather Christmas
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.
