Georgia, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Georgia is experiencing a relentless drought as October progresses, with 77% of the state classified as abnormally dry. The National Weather Service has issued forecasts of impending rain and storms this weekend, raising hopes for relief. The drought severely affects agriculture, particularly crops like peanuts and cotton, due to elevated temperatures and reduced rainfall. The situation is compounded by the possibility of prolonged dry conditions influenced by La Niña. Meteorologists predict up to 2 inches of rain may alleviate the drought in some areas.
Atlanta
Georgia is currently grappling with a persistent drought as the month of October progresses, raising concerns about further expansion of dry conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued forecasts indicating that rain and storms are expected to return this weekend, offering a glimmer of hope for relief from the ongoing drought.
On Saturday, weather conditions are anticipated to be mild and dry, transitioning into a day where scattered showers could develop by Sunday. The most severely impacted area by the drought is located south of Interstate 20. As of Friday, metro Atlanta is looking at a 20% chance of rain on Sunday night, with an increased likelihood of rain on Monday. The NWS predicts storms to continue across metro Atlanta and nearby areas at least through Wednesday night, although there are no severe weather hazards currently associated with these systems.
AccuWeather has noted the possibility of a stray thunderstorm lingering into Thursday. Overall, some parts of Georgia faced drought conditions as early as September, with the NWS stating that drought is likely to persist through December, potentially influenced by La Niña conditions in the Pacific Ocean. October typically brings drier weather to Georgia, which exacerbates existing drought concerns.
Weather Forecast Details
The NWS has provided an interim weather forecast as follows:
- Friday: Sunny, high near 79°F, east wind 10 mph.
- Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, low around 59°F, east wind 5-10 mph.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 80°F, east wind 10 mph.
- Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, low around 64°F, east wind 10 mph.
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high near 79°F, east wind 15 mph.
- Sunday Night: 20% chance of showers, low around 67°F.
- Monday: 40% chance of showers, high near 76°F.
- Monday Night: 30% chance of showers, low around 67°F.
- Tuesday: Chance of thunderstorms after 2 p.m., high near 79°F, 30% precipitation chance.
- Tuesday Night: Chance of thunderstorms before 8 p.m., then slight chance after 2 a.m.
- Wednesday: 20% chance of showers, high near 81°F.
- Wednesday Night: 10% chance of showers, low around 64°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 75°F.
Drought Impact and Background
The drought has significantly impacted urban and agricultural areas across Georgia, prompting discussions on potential water conservation measures. Currently, 77% of Georgia is categorized as “abnormally dry,” with parts of metro Atlanta facing moderate drought conditions. Farmers have felt the brunt of these dry spells, with crops like peanuts and cotton being adversely affected.
The situation is intensified due to high temperatures, which lead to increased evaporation and plant stress. Low rainfall levels have contributed to the drought, as cities like Atlanta and Columbus experienced 27 and 28 consecutive days without significant precipitation, respectively. Furthermore, a cold front is expected to arrive late Wednesday, potentially bringing more moisture and severe storms across the state.
Forecast models are optimistic, predicting up to 2 inches of rain in parts of central and northern Georgia from Thursday to Friday. However, long-term outlooks for December indicate that warmer and drier than average conditions may continue to prevail across much of Georgia.
Key Features at a Glance
- Drought Condition: Georgia is facing persistent drought conditions, with 77% categorized as abnormally dry.
- Rain Forecast: Rain and storms predicted for the weekend and beyond, with potential up to 2 inches of rain expected.
- Affected Areas: Most severely affected areas are south of Interstate 20, with notable impacts in agriculture.
- Temperature and Evaporation: High temperatures contributing to evaporation and plant stress, impacting crop yields.
FAQ
What is the current drought condition in Georgia?
Currently, 77% of Georgia is categorized as “abnormally dry,” with parts of metro Atlanta facing moderate drought conditions.
What weather can be expected this weekend in Georgia?
Rain and storms are expected to return this weekend, starting with a mild and dry Saturday followed by a chance of isolated showers on Sunday.
How long is the drought expected to last?
The NWS indicated that the drought is likely to persist through December, with impacts influenced by potential La Niña conditions in the Pacific.
What specific areas are affected by the drought?
The most affected area is south of Interstate 20.
How significant has the rainfall been recently?
Atlanta went 27 days without significant rainfall, and Columbus 28 days, contributing to the current drought conditions.
Summary Chart
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Drought Condition | 77% of Georgia abnormally dry |
| Rain Forecast | Rain expected this weekend, up to 2 inches in some areas |
| Affected Areas | Most affected area is south of Interstate 20 |
| Temperature Impact | High evaporation rates affecting crops |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Drought Conditions Worsen Across Metro Atlanta
Atlanta Faces Severe Drought Conditions
Cooler Weather Arrives in North Georgia
Atlanta Embraces Wellness and Community Events in October
Atlanta Fair Returns for 2025 Season
Atlanta Falcons Defeat Washington Commanders in Thrilling Match
Metro Atlanta Sees One of Its Driest Septembers on Record
Atlanta Experiences Major Cool Down and Shorter Days
Cold Front Bringing Much-Needed Rain to North Georgia
Atlanta Experiences Its Driest September in Two Decades
Additional Resources
- Patch: Storms Hit GA Amid Drought
- Wikipedia: Drought
- 11Alive: Weather Impact on Georgia’s Dry Spell
- Google Search: Georgia drought
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Cold Front Bringing Rain
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- WSBTV: Rain Chance and Strong Storms
- Google News: Weather Georgia
- Axios: Drought Conditions in Metro Atlanta
- Google Scholar: Georgia drought impact
- 13WMAZ: Latest Drought Monitor
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Drought Index Rising in North Georgia
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.
