Atlanta, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Metro Atlanta is facing a severe drought with multiple counties experiencing extreme drought conditions. Agricultural losses are reported due to the ongoing rainfall deficit, which starkly contrasts the usual amounts expected this October. As the community grapples with dwindling water resources and high fire risks, upcoming weather forecasts indicate a potential change with anticipated rainfall over the coming days.
Atlanta has been declared under extreme drought conditions, as recent updates from the drought monitor reveal a significant worsening of the situation in metro Atlanta. With several counties now classified with an extreme drought level (D3), residents are facing a multitude of challenges resulting from the persisting rainfall deficit.
The counties affected by the extreme drought include all of Fayette County, parts of Fulton County, Coweta County, Clayton County, Henry County, Spalding County, Meriwether County, Pike County, and Douglas County. Economic losses in agriculture are being reported, attributed to the dry conditions that have left the ground cracking and parched.
Besides agriculture, the landscaping businesses are experiencing adverse effects due to the drought, with most hay and grazing crops lost. Many outdoor burn bans have been implemented to mitigate fire risks during these extreme conditions. Rivers and ponds in the region are drying up, and wells are also running low.
The ongoing drought has caused trees in the affected areas to prematurely drop their leaves. So far this October, Atlanta has recorded only 0.13 inches of rain, while the usual expectation is 2.34 inches, marking a current rainfall deficit of -2.21 inches that continues to grow. Since September 1st, Atlanta has seen a substantial reduction in rainfall, accumulating merely 0.29 inches.
The situation affects local water resources significantly. Fayette County residents are noticing exceptionally low lake levels, reflecting the drought’s impact on local bodies of water. The regions in the southern and western parts of metro Atlanta may require 5 to 6 inches of rainfall over the next four weeks to alleviate the severe drought conditions.
As for short-term weather forecasts, two “First Alert Weather Days” have been issued for rain anticipated on Sunday and Monday. Conditions in North Georgia are expected to remain pleasant through Saturday, with plenty of sunshine and morning temperatures in the 40s, reaching the 70s in the afternoons. However, residents should prepare for a significant change in weather: showers are expected to spread from west to east starting Sunday afternoon, with the highest chances of rain appearing Sunday night and continuing into Monday morning.
Temperatures are predicted to drop into the low 60s on Sunday and into the 50s on Monday, accompanied by breezy and chilly conditions throughout the rainy period. Clear weather is predicted for Halloween, although the evening temperatures may dip to the 50s on October 31.
Overall, the Atlanta area has faced a rain deficit of over 5.5 inches for Meteorological Fall, and current conditions indicate that this fall has been extraordinarily dry, yielding only a quarter of an inch of rain since Labor Day.
FAQ
What counties in metro Atlanta are under extreme drought conditions?
Counties under extreme drought include: all of Fayette County, parts of Fulton County, Coweta County, Clayton County, Henry County, Spalding County, Meriwether County, Pike County, and Douglas County.
What is the current rainfall deficit for October in Atlanta?
The current rainfall deficit for October is -2.21 inches, with only 0.13 inches of rain recorded so far, compared to the expected 2.34 inches.
What are the expected impacts on local agriculture due to the drought?
Economic losses in agriculture are being reported due to drought conditions, affecting hay and grazing crops.
What water resources are affected by the drought?
Many rivers and ponds are dry, and wells in the area are also drying up.
How much rain is required to alleviate the drought conditions?
The south and western metro Atlanta area will require 5 to 6 inches of rainfall in the next four weeks to alleviate the drought conditions.
When are the anticipated weather changes for Atlanta?
Two “First Alert Weather Days” for rain are forecasted for Sunday and Monday, with showers expected to start Sunday afternoon and continue into Monday morning.
Key Features of Current Drought Conditions in Atlanta
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Extreme Drought Counties | Fayette, Fulton (parts), Coweta, Clayton, Henry, Spalding, Meriwether, Pike, Douglas |
| Rainfall in October | 0.13 inches recorded (deficit of -2.21 inches) |
| Agricultural Impact | Economic losses due to lost hay and grazing |
| Water Resource Status | Many rivers, ponds dry; wells are low |
| Rain Required to Alleviate Drought | 5 to 6 inches needed in next four weeks |
| Upcoming Weather | Uncertain with potential rain on Sunday and Monday |
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Extreme Drought Returns to Metro Atlanta
- WSB Radio: Extreme Drought Conditions Developing in Metro Atlanta
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Video on Drought Conditions
- Atlanta News First: First Alert Forecast and Rain Returns
- AJC: Metro Atlanta Sees Rainy Sunday but Drought Ongoing
- Wikipedia: Drought
- Google Search: Atlanta Drought
- Google Scholar: Drought in Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drought
- Google News: Atlanta Drought Updates
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.
