Atlanta

Atlanta Freezes as Northwest Winds Whip the Morning Commute

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Published on February 23, 2026
Atlanta Freezes as Northwest Winds Whip the Morning CommuteSource: Google Street View

Atlanta woke up to a raw, blustery start on Monday, February 23, 2026, with cloudy skies and temperatures hovering around 28°F near the airport. Very cold wind chills are expected this morning, with widespread values in the single digits to teens, and a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through 10 a.m. The morning commute will feel much colder than the thermometer suggests, and bridges and exposed roads may be slick with frost in low spots.

Morning Winds and Commute

Bright sunshine should break through this afternoon, but northwest winds are not going anywhere. Highs are forecast to top out near 41°F while northwest winds average about 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. According to the National Weather Service, the Cold Weather Advisory runs until 10 a.m., and those gusty winds could make the midday drive tricky in exposed areas. Secure loose outdoor items and give high profile vehicles extra room on the road.

Rest Of The Week

A warming trend begins Tuesday with highs near the low 50s, climbing into the upper 50s to low 60s by Wednesday as southerly flow returns. The forecast discussion warns, "Hazardous fire weather conditions likely (80% chance) on Tuesday," according to the National Weather Service, which could prompt a Fire Danger Statement for parts of north and central Georgia, so keep outdoor burning off the table until fuels recover. Rain chances increase Thursday into Friday, with the heaviest totals north of I-85 and a few storms capable of producing gusty winds.

Staying Safe

Bundle up, check on elderly neighbors and pets, and protect exposed pipes, since wind chill near single digits raises hypothermia risk with prolonged exposure. If you need shelter, the City of Atlanta has opened warming centers this month and posts activation details online, so call 2-1-1 or check the city's website before heading out. For more on the recent gusty winds across the metro, see the latest coverage.