Georgia Faces Escalating Drought Conditions

Georgia, September 19, 2025

News Summary

Georgia is grappling with worsening drought conditions, particularly in western regions, despite some rainfall earlier this summer. While rainfall in June and early August offered temporary relief, September has seen minimal precipitation, and the state’s drought status has deteriorated. The National Weather Service warns of potential flash droughts if rain does not return soon, putting pressure on urban water supplies and late-season crop farmers. Current projections indicate that western Georgia may need 4 to 5 inches of rain within four weeks to alleviate the ongoing drought.

Atlanta—Georgia is facing escalating drought conditions despite some rainfall earlier in the summer of 2025. As rainfall dwindles heading into fall, the situation is becoming more critical, particularly in western regions of the state.

Although rainfall was abundant in June and early August, the weather pattern shifted towards a drier trend in September. The state saw enough rain during July and August to temporarily mitigate drought conditions, but the recent lack of moisture has caused these improvements to deteriorate.

September 2025 has brought minimal rain to Georgia, with the most significant precipitation occurring on the 6th, yielding only 2/100 of an inch at the Atlanta Airport and just five minutes of rain at a nearby residence. In contrast, a line of thunderstorms on the same day produced over 2 inches of rain in Athens, illustrating the uneven distribution of rainfall across the state. Eastern Georgia has fared better than western areas, which are now experiencing a Moderate (D1) drought condition as of the September 16 Drought Monitor.

The National Weather Service and the National Integrated Drought Information System have raised concerns about the worsening drought conditions in western Georgia. Without significant rainfall, the potential for drought to escalate into a flash drought is high. Flash drought is defined as a two-category degradation over two consecutive weeks, which can occur without 1-2 inches of significant rainfall weekly.

Drought Information Statements will be issued once a county reaches D3 Extreme Drought conditions, with updates scheduled bi-weekly. Current projections indicate that western Georgia may require between 4 to 5 inches of rain within the next four weeks to alleviate the worsening drought conditions.

In addition to worrying implications for residential water use, urban counties may soon urge residents to conserve water, which could impact lawn irrigation and non-essential water use. Farmers, particularly those growing late-season crops like peanuts and cotton, are especially vulnerable to the current dry conditions. Meanwhile, the forecast shows little promise for rain relief through the end of September.

With the lack of rainfall, Lake Lanier’s water levels have declined nearly three feet since early August, now measuring 1,067.65 feet against a full summer pool of 1,071 feet. The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates northeastern Georgia has also returned to drought conditions, with counties such as Fannin and Gilmer classified under severe drought status.

Moderate drought conditions extend from Columbus to Augusta, while extreme drought is reported in parts of Dade and Walker counties. A weak tropical system may eventually bring rainfall, but for now, immediate conditions remain dry.

Key Drought Impacts

• Western Georgia is classified as experiencing Moderate Drought (D1) as of September 16.
• Urban counties may implement water conservation measures, affecting non-essential water use.
• Farmers growing late-season crops like peanuts and cotton are particularly at risk due to dry weather.
• Lake Lanier’s levels have dropped nearly three feet since early August and are currently below summer pool levels.

FAQs

Drought Condition Overview

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Additional Resources

• WSB Radio: Moderate Drought Conditions Developing in Metro Atlanta
• 11Alive: Georgia’s Dry Spell – Is It Getting Worse?
• WSB TV: Update on Drought Conditions Across North GA
• 11Alive: Drought Impacts on Metro Atlanta Farmers
• Wikipedia: Drought

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.