Atlanta’s relatively mild winters mean less preparation for snow and ice, but that doesn’t mean risks don’t exist. Unlike colder cities with robust winter weather plans, Atlanta’s response to ice storms and freezing conditions is limited. This can lead to hazardous sidewalks and road conditions, which can lead to injury.
The primary winter weather concern for most Atlanta residents is slip and fall accidents. Yes, snow days are rare in Atlanta, but winter conditions can still catch people off-guard and unprepared.
Prepping for Winter in the North vs. the South
Atlanta’s emergency winter weather response system is not as robust as a city like Chicago. Atlanta does not require a super technical winter weather protocol, as freezing temperatures are rare.
Likewise, in the warmer South, Atlanta has little need to buy snow plows and stockpile bags of sidewalk salt. Most people in colder northern climates have snow chains for their cars, ice scrapers for their windshields, and even winter emergency kits with flashlights or first aid supplies. Not many Atlanta residents would prepare for winter by stocking up on such items.
Furthermore, in the North, people are usually equipped with snow boots, warm hats, waterproof gloves, scarves, and proper winter coats. Many people in Atlanta see no need to invest in something like a peacoat or ski jacket.
The Usual Weather in Atlanta
Known for humid summers and a nearly tropical climate, Atlanta does experience four seasons. Winter in Atlanta is usually short, wet, and chilly, whereas summer is long, hot, and muggy. Partly cloudy weather is not uncommon year-round.
The average high temperature in July in Atlanta averages around 89 degrees, while the average low in January is about 43 degrees. By comparison, January in Atlanta is colder than other US cities at the same latitude.
Atlanta Winter Weather
Ice storms and freezing rain do happen in Atlanta in the winter. The city isn’t always responsive in de-icing dangerous sidewalks and roads when these rare events occur. Plan for the worst and use caution. Even freezing temperatures on their own can be an “event” in Atlanta, as the city is largely unequipped to handle these temperatures.
How Much Does It Snow in Atlanta?
Atlanta gets around two inches of snowfall in the average year. Snow and ice in Atlanta typically melt on their own before salt and plows can be deployed. But Atlanta got a wake-up call in 2014 when it was unexpectedly hit by a severe winter storm, which is now referred to as “Snowmageddon.” There were dozens of car accidents, and many people were injured as a result.
Average Monthly Temperatures in Atlanta
In Atlanta, it’s rarely below 22 degrees or over 95 degrees. The average year-round temperature is a mild 61 degrees.
Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly temperatures in Atlanta:
- January: 53 degrees (average high), 33 degrees (average low)
- February: 58 degrees, 36 degrees
- March: 66 degrees, 42 degrees
- April: 73 degrees, 48 degrees
- May: 80 degrees, 58 degrees
- June: 87 degrees, 65 degrees
- July: 89 degrees, 69 degrees
- August: 88 degrees, 68 degrees
- September: 83 degrees, 62 degrees
- October: 74 degrees, 51 degrees
- November: 64 degrees, 41 degrees
- December: 56 degrees, 35 degrees
As you can see from these mild winter temperatures, prepping for colder weather in Atlanta is usually far less demanding than it is in cities farther north. However, just because snow and ice storms are rare in Atlanta doesn’t mean the city should lag on emergency preparations.
If You’ve Been Injured Due to Winter Weather in Atlanta, a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If you believe the city or another entity may be responsible for an accident you suffered due to winter weather conditions, don’t hesitate to contact an Atlanta personal injury lawyer with any questions you may have.
