Atlanta woke up Tuesday, May 26, 2026, to a warm, muggy blanket of clouds and temperatures in the mid 60s, and things are only expected to get sloppier from here. Forecasters say several rounds of heavy showers and thunderstorms will roll through through the day, with highs topping out in the upper 70s to near 80°F. A Flood Watch is in effect through late tonight, which means low lying streets and neighborhoods with poor drainage are at risk for ponding water and brief flash flooding.
What To Expect Tuesday
Rain chances jump quickly after daybreak. Showers are likely before 11 a.m., with numerous thunderstorms expected from late morning through mid evening and the most widespread activity from about 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Forecasters put rain chances near 90%, with many spots picking up around a half to three quarters of an inch and locally higher totals where storms repeatedly track over the same area. Stronger storms could bring gusts up to 20 mph and short bursts of intense rain that cut visibility and cause water to collect rapidly on roads, according to the National Weather Service Peachtree City.
Flood Watch, What It Means
A Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding and residents should be ready to act if warnings are issued. In this case, saturated ground from recent storms plus the potential for multiple waves of heavy rain could trigger flash flooding in creeks, streams, and urban low spots. For more on the recent soggy stretch and some of Atlanta's usual flood problem areas, see yesterday's coverage of Atlanta's usual flood traps on high alert.
Commute And Outdoor Plans
Plan on a soggy afternoon commute, allow extra time to get where you are going, slow down in heavy rain, and watch for standing water in underpasses and other low spots. If you have outdoor plans, it is a good day to move them inside or reschedule. When you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning, so head indoors and stay there until storms pass. Keep your phone and other devices charged and weather alerts turned on so you can respond quickly if Flood Warnings are issued.
Quick Safety Tips
Do not try to drive through standing water. Even a few inches can stall a car or sweep it off the road. If you can, move vehicles out of known flood prone low spots, bring valuables up from basements, and check in on neighbors who might need a hand. Keep an eye on local alerts and updates from the National Weather Service for any Flood Warnings that would call for immediate action.
