Georgia, December 30, 2025
News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for dangerous fire conditions in north and central Georgia, including metro Atlanta. With humidity levels dropping below 25% and wind gusts reaching 25 mph, the combination poses a severe fire hazard. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning and personal fireworks. While temperatures remain frigid, a gradual increase is expected throughout the week, with rain anticipated by Friday. Fire officials stress the importance of adhering to fire codes and clearing dry debris.
Atlanta, Georgia – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a red flag warning for dangerous fire conditions in north and central Georgia, effective from noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday. This warning encompasses areas including metro Atlanta and the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests.
As the day progresses, relative humidity levels are expected to drop below 25%, while wind gusts may reach up to 25 mph. The combination of these elevated winds and low humidity creates extremely dangerous fire weather conditions across the region.
Residents are advised to consult local burn permitting authorities before engaging in any outdoor burning and to exercise extreme caution if they choose to do so. As a precaution, Atlanta Fire and Rescue officials recommend avoiding personal fireworks due to the dry and windy environment.
The current weather in metro Atlanta reflects a chill as temperatures remain frigid, with highs only reaching the upper 30s to low 40s. Overnight lows are dropping to the 20s, while areas like Blairsville may experience temperatures in the teens.
Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to gradually rise beginning Wednesday, with highs forecasted to reach 60 degrees by Saturday. Rain is anticipated to arrive in metro Atlanta after 1 p.m. on Friday, carrying a 90 percent chance of precipitation that night. Thunderstorms are also possible on Saturday, with a 60 percent chance of rain.
Officials emphasize the significance of adhering to local fire codes and clearing dry debris from properties to mitigate fire hazards. This year marks the sixth red flag warning issued, a sign of the increasing risk of brush fires as Georgia is approximately 2.5 inches below normal rainfall for the month and close to 8.5 inches below normal for the year.
A Fire Weather Watch remains active for parts of east and northeast Georgia, indicating the likelihood of critical fire conditions. In higher elevations, wind gusts could reach 30 mph, with relative humidity continuing to stay below 25%.
Fire officials warn that the dry weather conditions and strong winds can enable fires to spread rapidly, as demonstrated by past incidents.
Weather Summary
- Red Flag Warning: north and central Georgia
- Time of Effect: noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday
- Areas Affected: metro Atlanta, Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests
- Humidity Levels: below 25%
- Wind Gusts: up to 25 mph (30 mph in higher elevations)
Upcoming Weather Forecast
- Temperature Highs: upper 30s to low 40s Tuesday; 60 degrees by Saturday
- Rain Expectation: 90 percent chance Friday night; 60 percent chance of thunderstorms Saturday
- New Year’s Eve: clear skies
- New Year’s Day: sunny with highs near 56 degrees
Fire Safety Recommendations
- Consult local burn permitting authorities before outdoor burning
- Avoid personal fireworks
- Adhere to local fire codes
- Clear dry debris from properties
FAQ
What areas are affected by the red flag warning?
The warning affects north and central Georgia, including metro Atlanta and the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests.
What are the conditions contributing to the red flag warning?
The combination of elevated winds and low humidity creates extremely dangerous fire weather conditions.
What precautions should residents take?
Residents are advised to consult local burn permitting authorities before burning outdoors and to exercise extreme caution if they choose to do so.
What are the expected weather conditions in the upcoming days?
After frigid temperatures, highs are forecasted to reach 60 degrees by Saturday, with rain expected Friday night and a chance of thunderstorms Saturday.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Red Flag Warning | Issued for dangerous fire conditions in north and central Georgia |
| Timeframe | Noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday |
| Temperature Range | Highs in the upper 30s to low 40s, dropping to the 20s |
| Humidity Levels | Predicted to drop below 25% |
| Wind Gusts | Up to 25 mph |
| Expected Rain | 90% chance Friday night |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Winter Storm Disrupts Southern States
Severe Drought Affects Atlanta and Surrounding Areas
Brush Fire Causes Traffic Delays on Buford Spring Connector
Armed Man Arrested at Atlanta Airport After Family Alert
Man Arrested for Alleged Airport Shooting Plot in Atlanta
Hazardous Weather Outlook Issued for North and Central Georgia
Atlanta Faces Intensified Drought Conditions
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport Rejects Controversial DHS Video
Air Traffic Control Tower Evacuated at Atlanta Airport
Hartsfield-Jackson Airport Evacuated Due to Fire Alarm
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Red Flag Warning in Effect
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Fire Weather Watch New Year’s Forecast
- 11Alive: Fire Weather Watch Issued
- CBS News: Georgia Drought Conditions Fire Warning
- Wikipedia: Fire Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire
- Google Search: Drought in Georgia
- Google News: Georgia Fire Conditions
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.
