Atlanta residents should brace themselves for a deluge today, as forecasters are predicting a 100% chance of showers and thunderstorms, some of which could bring about heavy rainfall throughout the day. According to the National Weather Service, steady temperatures around 59 degrees will be accompanied by an east wind blowing at 5 to 15 mph, gusting up to 20 mph, and new rainfall amounts could reach between 1 and 2 inches.
The wet conditions are expected to persist into the evening, with the likelihood of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m. While the temperature is set to drop to a low around 41 degrees, the southwest wind will pick up, reaching 15 to 20 mph, and, could see gusts as high as 30 mph. Even as the chance of precipitation decreases to 60%, those venturing out should prepare for a blustery end to their day.
But for those weary of the rain, Tuesday offers a sunny reprieve with clear skies and a high near 54, the winds, however, will remain robust from the northwest at around 15 mph and gusts reaching 25 mph. Tuesday night’s forecast suggests a mostly clear evening with a low around 35 degrees and lighter winds at 5 to 10 mph.
Looking ahead, the rest of the week appears to welcome a succession of clement days—Wednesday and Thursday promise unblemished sunshine with highs in the low 60s, while the nights are expected to be mostly clear with lows hovering in the low 40s. Even Friday stays partly sunny until a chance of showers creeps in after 1am, indicating that the umbrella-free days may be numbered for Atlanta citizens.
For those planning their weekend activities, carry an umbrella just in case. There's a 50 percent chance of showers for Saturday; the skies will be mostly cloudy, with daytime temperatures peaking at a cooler 55 degrees. A slight reprieve may come on Sunday, which is forecasted to be mostly sunny, although the high will remain in the low 50s.
For detailed updates, residents can visit the National Weather Service website for the latest information on the shifting patterns that may yet define their need for rain gear or winter jackets as February deepens its hold over the Southeastern United States.
