Atlanta, GA, December 30, 2025

News Summary

Atlanta is bracing for a significant drop in temperatures, with highs expected to remain in the low 40s and lows plunging into the 20s. In response, local authorities are opening warming centers to provide shelter and meals for those in need. These centers will operate from December 29 to 31, led by Frontline Response International, ensuring access to warmth and support as residents prepare for harsh winter conditions.

Atlanta Faces Freezing Temperatures and Opens Warming Centers Amid Upcoming Cold Snap

Atlanta is currently facing a significant drop in temperatures, with highs struggling to reach the low 40s. As the National Weather Service forecasts, temperatures are expected to plummet back into the 20s overnight into Wednesday, compelling local authorities to respond with warming centers for those in need.

A cold front moving through North Georgia is set to bring light rain, before colder air settles in through midweek. While some areas are expected to see daytime highs of 70 degrees in downtown Atlanta ahead of the cold front, the rapid temperature drop will have residents preparing for harsher conditions.

Weather forecasters anticipate that winds will increase ahead of the cold front leading to rain showers expected to move through northwest Georgia early Monday morning. Metro Atlanta should see this rain reach its area around 4 to 6 AM, clearing up by late morning but with lingering clouds throughout the day.

By Monday afternoon, temperatures are projected to fall into the 40s, and strong gusty winds will make it feel even colder. As night falls, temperatures are likely to drop into the 20s and 30s, with many areas experiencing conditions below freezing.

This cold spell is expected to persist through Tuesday and Wednesday, with daytime highs remaining stagnant in the 40s. A slow recovery is predicted for New Year’s Day, with temperatures expected to rise to the mid-50s.

In response to the cold weather, DeKalb County has opened warming centers from December 29 to 31. These centers start operations at 6:30 PM each night, providing shelter and meals for individuals and families in need. The warming centers are being operated by Frontline Response International, which specializes in emergency outreach during extreme weather events.

Individuals seeking warmth and shelter can access these centers without a deadline for arrival or departure. Free transportation pickups to the warming centers are scheduled across various locations in North DeKalb, including Chamblee, Tucker, and Decatur.

Guests at the warming centers will be provided access to heat, meals prepared by a chef, and a place to rest. Local residents are encouraged to reach out for help, as many have utilized these centers to weather the freezing temperatures.

Temperature Forecast Summary

• Current Highs: Low 40s
• Expected Lows: 20s and 30s overnight into Wednesday
• Upcoming Highs: Mid-50s by New Year’s Day

Details on Warming Centers

• Location: DeKalb County
• Operation Dates: December 29 to 31
• Start Time: 6:30 PM each night
• Transport Services: Pickup available from Chamblee, Tucker, and Decatur

Weather Outlook

• Rain Start Timing: 4 to 6 AM on Monday
• Clearing: Late morning Monday
• Cold Night: Monday temperatures drop to below freezing

Background Context

This cold snap is characterized by a significant temperature drop following a period of milder weather. History shows that winter in Georgia can fluctuate between warm spells and harsh cold, making evenings and nights especially challenging for vulnerable populations. Warming centers often become critical resources during such weather, providing warmth, food, and safety.

FAQs

Chart: Upcoming Weather Overview

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Atlanta Residents Cautioned Over Snow Forecast Misleading
Atlanta Introducing Countdown Over ATL for New Year’s Eve Celebration
Atlanta Unveils New Year’s Eve Celebration ‘Countdown Over ATL’
Celebrate the New Year in Atlanta with Festive Events
Red Flag Warning Issued for Dangerous Fire Conditions in Georgia
Atlanta’s New Year Celebration Introduces Countdown Over ATL
Atlanta to Launch New Year Celebration with Drone Show
Atlanta United Signs Defender Tomás Jacob
Atlanta Introduces Countdown Over ATL for New Year’s Eve
Severe Flu Season Hits Georgia, Child Hospitalizations Surge

Additional Resources

• AJC: It’s Finally Starting to Feel More Like Winter
• Google Search: Atlanta Weather Forecast
• Fox 5 Atlanta: Cold Front Brings Rain and Plunging Temperatures
• Wikipedia: Weather in Georgia (U.S.)
• CBS News: DeKalb County Warming Centers Open
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
• USA Today: Forecast for New Year’s Eve in Atlanta
• BBC Weather: Search by Location

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.