Atlanta, GA, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta has recorded its driest September in 20 years, with just 0.16 inches of rain noted at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. This unprecedented dry spell marks the potential fifth driest September on record as the city faces increasing drought conditions affecting over 77% of Georgia. The severe lack of precipitation has impacted agricultural practices, particularly during crucial harvest periods for cotton and peanuts. Although a possible cold front may bring some moisture, forecasts suggest continued warm and dry weather into December.
Atlanta Experiences Its Driest September in Two Decades
Atlanta is closing out its driest September in 20 years, with only 0.16 inches of rain recorded at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport as of September 29. If no rain falls on the last day of September, it will mark the driest September since 2005 and one of the all-time driest on record. The city is on track to close as the fifth driest September on record.
High pressure and passing dry fall frontal systems have contributed to lower humidity levels, suppressing rain. North Georgia experienced dry conditions despite two wetter periods on September 6 and between September 24-25. Parts of north Georgia saw 1 to 4 inches of rain, but Hartsfield-Jackson Airport reported minimal rainfall.
A moderate drought has expanded across most of the Atlanta metro area by September 25, except for far eastern suburbs. Columbus, in west-central Georgia, is facing a Level 2 ‘Severe’ drought that is impacting agricultural conditions.
More than 77% of Georgia is reported as “abnormally dry” in the latest Drought Monitor. Dry conditions have negatively impacted soil moisture and stream flow across the state, leading to a deterioration of crop conditions. Farmers are facing difficulties as the dry spell has struck during crucial periods for the cotton and peanut harvest season, vital for Georgia’s agriculture industry.
The dry conditions are exacerbated by higher temperatures in September, increasing evapotranspiration and worsening soil moisture deficits. Atlanta has gone 27 days without receiving more than a tenth of an inch of rain; Columbus has faced similar dry spells of 28 days.
Potential Weather Changes
A study indicated that southeastern and central U.S. regions, including Georgia, are particularly vulnerable to flash droughts. Farmers are experiencing increased stress due to the adverse weather and concerns over market and farming resources. Due to drought conditions, cattle producers are now resorting to feeding winter hay early, anticipating potential shortages later in the year.
A possible cold front with significant moisture could arrive late Wednesday, which might bring much-needed rain to certain parts of Georgia. However, forecasts indicate that end-of-year predictions favor continued warmer and drier conditions across most of Georgia into December. The Atlantic hurricane season is active, though the impact of potential storms on Georgia’s weather remains uncertain.
Climatologists express concern that upcoming conditions, with potential La Niña patterns, could lead to even drier weather in the winter months.
FAQ
What is the rainfall recorded in Atlanta for September 2023?
Atlanta is closing out its driest September in 20 years, with only 0.16 inches of rain recorded at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport as of September 29.
How has the drought affected Georgia?
More than 77% of Georgia is reported as “abnormally dry” in the latest Drought Monitor. Dry conditions have negatively impacted soil moisture and stream flow across the state, leading to a deterioration of crop conditions.
What are the potential weather changes for Georgia?
A possible cold front with significant moisture could arrive late Wednesday, which might bring much-needed rain to certain parts of Georgia. However, end-of-year predictions favor continued warmer and drier conditions across the state into December.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Driest September | 0.16 inches of rain recorded as of September 29, potentially the driest since 2005. |
| Drought Conditions | 77% of Georgia reported as “abnormally dry”. |
| Impact on Agriculture | Farmers struggling during crucial cotton and peanut harvest season. |
| Dry Spell Duration | Atlanta has gone 27 days without significant rain. |
| Weather Predictions | Possibility of rain, but forecasts indicate warmer and drier conditions into December. |
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Atlanta Experiences Its Driest September in Two Decades
- AJC: Flash Drought Developing in Georgia
- WSB Radio: Moderate Drought Conditions Developing in Metro Atlanta
- Axios: Georgia’s Drought Threatens Cotton and Peanuts
- 11Alive: Weather Impact of Georgia’s Dry Spell
- Wikipedia: Drought
- Google Search: Georgia Drought
- Google Scholar: Flash Drought Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drought
- Google News: Atlanta Weather News
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.
