Georgia Faces Expanding Drought Conditions

Georgia, September 26, 2025

News Summary

Georgia is experiencing worsening drought conditions, with over 77% of the state classified as abnormally dry. Areas like metro Atlanta and Southwest Georgia are showing moderate drought signs amid record-high temperatures and a lack of rainfall for over 27 days. Farmers growing cotton and peanuts are particularly affected as harvest season begins. The forecast indicates only a slight chance of rain that is expected to provide minimal relief. The situation could further deteriorate if hot and dry conditions persist throughout the year.

Atlanta is entering a milder final weekend of September after experiencing record-tying heat earlier in the week. Highs for Saturday and Sunday are expected to settle in the mid-80s, which is typical for this time of year. However, lower rain chances are predicted for the weekend, with an isolated shower or thunderstorm possible in the afternoons. By Sunday, skies are expected to be mostly sunny with little to no rain anticipated.

Despite recent showers providing some relief, the drought continues to expand across portions of Georgia. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, over 77% of Georgia is now classified as “abnormally dry.” Moderate drought conditions are developing around parts of metro Atlanta and Southwest Georgia, indicating a worsening situation. The phenomenon of “flash droughts” is occurring due to a combination of low precipitation and warmer temperatures, leading to rapidly deteriorating dry conditions.

In many areas, including cities like Atlanta and Columbus, there has been no rainfall for over 27 days. A study indicates that the southeastern and central U.S. are particularly susceptible to flash droughts, and higher temperatures further exacerbate the situation by increasing evapotranspiration, hence reducing soil moisture.

Agricultural impacts are significant, with farmers—particularly those growing cotton and peanuts—experiencing substantial stress during this critical growth period. Harvest season for cotton is beginning, but farmers with late plantings are struggling due to a lack of water and heat. Similarly, parched soils are making it difficult for peanut farmers to harvest their crops effectively. The ongoing dry conditions also threaten water supply, fire risk, and garden health in urban areas.

Currently, there is a 20% chance of rain in Georgia over the upcoming days, but it is not expected to provide significant relief. A cold front anticipated late Wednesday could potentially bring half an inch to two inches of rain in parts of central and North Georgia, with the heaviest rain expected in the northern regions. Long-range forecast models indicate a trend of hotter and drier than normal conditions for the remainder of the year, particularly in northern Georgia.

Looking beyond immediate weather conditions, the active 2025 hurricane season remains a consideration, though the specific impact of potential tropical developments on Georgia is still uncertain. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the tropics for any potential changes.

Key Takeaways

• Over 77% of Georgia classified as abnormally dry.
• Moderate drought conditions developing in metro Atlanta and Southwest Georgia.
• No rainfall for over 27 days in areas like Atlanta and Columbus.
• Agricultural impacts affecting cotton and peanut farmers during crucial growth periods.
• Only a 20% chance of rain expected to offer minimal relief in the coming days.
• A cold front forecast for late Wednesday might bring some precipitation in certain areas.

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• AJC: Flash Drought in Georgia
• Google Search: Georgia flash drought
• 11 Alive: Georgia’s Dry Spell
• Wikipedia: Drought
• WSBTV: Metro Atlanta Drought
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Drought
• WSB Radio: Moderate Drought Conditions
• Google News: Georgia drought impact
• 11 Alive: Drought Impacts on Farmers
• Google Scholar: Georgia drought agriculture

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.