Atlanta Braces For Blustery Midweek As Southwest Winds Whip The City

Atlanta is waking up clear and brisk this morning, with temperatures hanging near 43°F at Hartsfield-Jackson and low humidity adding a bit of a bite to the air. A southwest breeze will help readings climb into the low 60s by Wednesday afternoon, but the trade-off is a blustery feel as the wind kicks up. If you are heading out for a walk or running errands, expect a quick warm-up paired with a persistent breeze.

Southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts as high as 30 mph are on tap today, enough to shove around lightweight patio furniture and make umbrellas more hassle than help. Shower chances increase late Wednesday night, with rain becoming widespread Thursday into Friday. Many spots could pick up roughly 0.75 to 1.5 inches of rain through Saturday. A few heavier downpours and isolated thunderstorms are possible, though organized severe weather is not expected, according to the National Weather Service.

Afternoon Winds Pick Up

Gusts should peak from late morning through the early evening, when the breeze is most likely to slow bike and bus commutes on exposed stretches. Drivers of high-profile vehicles, along with anyone hauling or storing outdoor gear, should secure loose items and build in a little extra travel time.

Thursday Night Into Friday

A front sliding through Thursday will bring a steadier shield of rain Thursday into Friday, with the most widespread coverage late Thursday night. Showers and occasional thunderstorms will be most likely along and north of I-20 and in the higher terrain, where locally higher rainfall totals are possible. Overall amounts around 0.75 to 1.5 inches are expected. Temperatures stay on the mild side, with overnight lows generally in the low 50s, and gusty bursts of wind could accompany the heaviest cells, per the National Weather Service.

Weekend Outlook And Tips

High pressure builds in over the region for the weekend, bringing drier skies and a warm finish. Highs should reach near 70°F on Saturday and rise into the low-to-mid 70s by Sunday. If you have outdoor plans Thursday or Friday, plan on wet, windy conditions and keep a weather-aware backup ready to go. Secure tarps and lightweight gear ahead of time, and allow for a few extra minutes on the Thursday-Friday commute.