Georgia, December 30, 2025
News Summary
As New Year approaches, Georgia is experiencing a significant weather shift with colder temperatures and increased fire danger. Residents are advised to stay cautious while engaging in outdoor activities, as dry air and gusty winds have triggered a Fire Weather Watch, particularly in eastern and northeastern regions. With temperatures in Atlanta dropping to the 20s and rain expected later in the week, safety measures like following local burn guidelines become crucial during these festivities.
Atlanta
Colder weather and elevated fire danger are expected in Georgia as New Year approaches, marking a significant shift from the warm temperatures experienced on Christmas Day. Residents across the state are advised to be cautious, especially with outdoor activities, as conditions become unfavorable.
Christmas Day temperatures in Georgia were among the warmest in recent years, but this warm weather trend will end sharply. As of Monday night, temperatures in Atlanta plummeted into the 20s. The forecast indicates that cooler temperatures are arriving, paired with rain in Atlanta; however, no snow is predicted for the area.
An important warning has been issued for parts of Georgia, which includes a Fire Weather Watch due to dry air and gusty winds. The National Weather Service forecasts that fire danger will be heightened from Tuesday through New Year’s Eve. The watch is particularly focused on east and northeast Georgia, impacting regions like the Chattahoochee and Oconee national forests.
Currently, Georgia is approximately 2.5 inches below normal rainfall for December and nearly 8.5 inches below normal for the entire year, which significantly raises the risk of brush fires. Forecast conditions show relative humidity levels dropping below 25%, with sustained winds of up to 25 mph and gusts potentially reaching 30 mph at higher elevations.
Cold temperatures in the state are accompanied by wind chills expected to dip into the teens in north Georgia. On Tuesday, high temperatures in metro Atlanta are anticipated to struggle to reach the low 40s, while the north Georgia mountains may not exceed upper 30s. In contrast, Wednesday’s forecast sees a gradual warming trend, with expected highs in the low 50s.
The weather is expected to improve slightly for New Year’s Day, when temperatures are projected to reach the mid-50s under sunny conditions. Nonetheless, rain is anticipated late in the week, starting on Friday with a 30% chance of precipitation, which increases to an 80% chance on Friday night. Showers may continue into Saturday, with a 60% chance of rain forecasted. Drier weather is expected to return on Sunday, following the shower activity.
Given the elevated fire risk amid these changing weather patterns, residents are urged to follow local burn guidelines to ensure safety through New Year’s festivities.
Key Weather Forecasts
| Date | High Temperature (°F) | Chance of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Low 40s | 0% |
| Wednesday | Low 50s | 0% |
| New Year’s Day | Mid 50s | 0% |
| Friday | Highs TBD | 30% – 80% |
| Saturday | Highs TBD | 60% |
| Sunday | Highs TBD | 0% |
FAQ
What weather changes are expected in Georgia as New Year approaches?
Colder weather and elevated fire danger are expected in Georgia as New Year approaches.
When is the Fire Weather Watch issued?
The Fire Weather Watch is active Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
What is the humidity level expected during the fire risk period?
Forecast conditions include relative humidity below 25% and sustained winds of up to 25 mph.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- USA Today: New Year’s Eve forecast in Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Fire Weather Watch and New Year’s Forecast
- Google Search: Atlanta weather forecast
- Hoodline: Atlanta Weather and New Year’s Day
- Google Scholar: Fire Weather Watch
- AJC: Cold front and warmth in Georgia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- CBS News: Georgia Temperatures for Christmas
- Google News: New Year weather Atlanta
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.
