Atlanta, December 27, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta has set a new record high temperature of 79 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 75 degrees from 2015. Other regions in Georgia, such as Athens and Macon, have also reported record highs. While warm weather is expected to last through the weekend, a significant cold front is forecasted to arrive soon, bringing cooler temperatures and some rain showers. Forecasters predict that this December marks one of the warmest holiday seasons in years with potentially record-breaking temperatures on Christmas.
Atlanta set a new record high temperature at 79 degrees on Saturday afternoon, surpassing the previous record of 75 degrees established in 2015. According to data from the National Weather Service, this unprecedented temperature was logged around 3 p.m. The average high temperature for this time of year in Atlanta is typically around 54 degrees, making this spike particularly notable.
Additionally, other areas in Georgia also experienced remarkable warmth. Athens reached 79 degrees, breaking its previous record of 74 degrees set in 2016, while Macon tied its own record from 2015 at 79 degrees. The unusual warmth is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures predicted to be 15 to 25 degrees above normal for late December.
However, a significant change is on the horizon. A strong cold front is forecasted to sweep through the area on Monday, likely resulting in a marked drop in temperatures. Rain showers may accompany this weather front, though they are not anticipated to be heavy, with most regions receiving less than a quarter inch of rain.
As this cold front passes, temperatures could plummet to 10 to 15 degrees below normal from Monday night into Tuesday. Highs on Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to be significantly cooler compared to the recent warmth. In addition, windy and dry conditions are anticipated following the front, potentially increasing fire danger for outdoor activities.
This December marks one of the warmest holiday seasons experienced in several years across North Georgia. With Christmas around the corner, forecasters predict highs of 73 degrees on Christmas Eve and 75 degrees on Christmas Day, both likely to set new records for those days. Currently, the record for Christmas Day stands at 75 degrees, set in 2015.
The unseasonably warm conditions are attributed to a large dome of high pressure affecting much of the central and southern United States. Typically, the cold winter weather at this time would enforce wearing jackets, a stark contrast to the current high temperatures.
As the week progresses, the warm weather pattern is set to change once again, with temperatures expected to gradually moderate back to near normal by the end of the following week.
Key Temperature Records in Georgia
- Atlanta: New record high of 79 degrees (previously 75 degrees in 2015)
- Athens: New record high of 79 degrees (previously 74 degrees in 2016)
- Macon: Record tied at 79 degrees (previously set in 2015)
Upcoming Weather Patterns
- Strong cold front expected on Monday
- Possible rain showers, not heavy
- Temperatures may drop to 10 to 15 degrees below normal by Tuesday night
- Significantly cooler highs forecasted for Tuesday and Wednesday
- Windy and dry conditions, increasing fire danger
- Gradual return to near normal temperatures by week’s end
FAQ
What was the record high temperature in Atlanta on Saturday?
Atlanta surpassed the previous record high temperature, reaching 79 degrees on Saturday afternoon.
What was the average high temperature for this time of year in Atlanta?
The average high temperature for this time of year in Atlanta is around 54 degrees.
What other areas in Georgia experienced record high temperatures?
Other areas in Georgia also experienced record highs: Athens hit 79 degrees, breaking the previous record of 74 degrees set in 2016. Macon reached 79 degrees as well, tying their record from 2015.
What is expected to happen after the warm weather?
A strong cold front is predicted to sweep through the area on Monday, leading to a significant drop in temperatures, possibly falling to 10 to 15 degrees below normal by Monday night into Tuesday.
Will the weather stay warm throughout the holiday season?
This December is noted for having one of the warmest holiday seasons in several years in North Georgia. Forecasters predict highs of 73 degrees on Christmas Eve and 75 degrees on Christmas Day, which would also set records for those days.
Key Features of the Record Highs in Atlanta, December
| Location | Record High | Previous Record | Record Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | 79 degrees | 75 degrees | 2015 |
| Athens | 79 degrees | 74 degrees | 2016 |
| Macon | 79 degrees | 79 degrees | 2015 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Record-Breaking Warmth Hits Georgia Cities
Record-Breaking Warmth in North Georgia
Atlanta Experiences Unseasonably Warm Temperatures
Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Expected in Atlanta
Warm Christmas Day Expected in Atlanta
Unusually Warm Christmas Forecasted for Atlanta
Atlanta Experiences Record-Breaking Christmas Eve Temperatures
Warm Christmas Weather Predicted for Atlanta
Atlanta to Experience Hottest Christmas Day in 140 Years
Significant Weather Shift Expected in Atlanta
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Atlanta Shatters Another December Record High
- CBS News: Georgia to See Near Record Highs for Christmas Day
- AJC: Atlanta Sets Record High Amid December Heat
- Augusta Chronicle: Temperature on Christmas Could be One of Hottest on Record
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Christmas Day Forecast and Record Warmth
- Wikipedia: Climate of Atlanta
- Google Search: Atlanta Weather Records
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Weather Records
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta
- Google News: Atlanta Weather
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.
