Kicking off with December weather in Atlanta, the last month of the year in this southern city is marked by chilly temperatures, moderate precipitation, and occasional extreme weather events.
The average high temperature in December is around 52°F (11°C), while the low temperature averages 38°F (3°C). Precipitation is moderate, with an average of 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) falling throughout the month, often in the form of rain or brief snow showers.
December Weather Patterns in Atlanta
December is the coldest month in Atlanta, with temperatures steadily dropping as winter takes hold. This period marks the beginning of the dry season, but it can still bring occasional precipitation. Here are the typical weather patterns to expect in Atlanta during December.
Typical Weather Conditions
December’s average high temperature in Atlanta is around 52°F (11°C), while the average low temperature is around 35°F (2°C). It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing, especially on clear nights. The average amount of precipitation in December is approximately 3.7 inches (94 mm), with an average of 12 days seeing some form of precipitation.
- Low Temperature Events: Atlanta can experience cold fronts that bring temperatures down significantly, sometimes to as low as 20°F (-7°C) or lower. These events are often short-lived but can be intense, prompting winter weather advisories.
- Freezing Temperatures: It’s not uncommon for Atlanta to experience multiple days of temperatures below freezing, especially in January and February. The city’s elevation and proximity to the Tennessee River contribute to these conditions.
- Rainfall and Thunderstorms: Although Atlanta’s dry season has begun, some precipitation events may still occur. These can range from light drizzles to intense thunderstorms, often accompanied by gusty winds.
Atlanta’s weather patterns in December are influenced by two primary atmospheric conditions: the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Arctic Oscillation (AO).
- North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO): The NAO has a significant impact on winter weather patterns in the Northern Hemisphere, including Atlanta. During positive NAO phases, temperatures in the North Atlantic are unusually high, leading to warmer conditions over the southeastern United States.
- Arctic Oscillation (AO): AO plays a crucial role in regulating the jet stream, which in turn affects temperature and precipitation patterns. During negative AO phases, the jet stream can become more meridional, allowing cold Arctic air to sink southward and bring cold temperatures to the southeastern United States.
Extreme Weather Events
December in Atlanta is not without its extreme weather events, including
snowfall events, freezing rain, and freezing fog.
- Snowfall: Although rare, Atlanta can experience snowfall events during December, typically accompanied by freezing temperatures and ice accumulation. Snowfall averages around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in December, but some years have seen more significant amounts.
- Dangerous Ice Conditions: Freezing temperatures can lead to hazardous ice conditions on roads, leading to accidents and traffic disruptions.
Precipitation and Snowfall Patterns: December Weather In Atlanta
Atlanta in December typically experiences a relatively drier period in comparison to the previous months, with the average precipitation levels slightly decreasing as winter approaches. Although the temperatures are cooler in December, the overall precipitation levels in Atlanta are not as significant as during the spring and summer months. This decrease in precipitation levels is due to the city’s location in the southeastern United States, far from major weather patterns like Pacific storms and hurricane tracks.
Average Precipitation Levels in December
According to the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), the average precipitation in Atlanta in December is approximately 3.5 inches. This is a result of the average of 10 rainy days, with the majority being light rain showers. While these numbers may seem low, it’s essential to note that the city’s precipitation patterns vary greatly depending on the specific month of the year.
- Average monthly precipitation: 3.5 inches
- Number of rainy days: 10 days on average
Comparing December Precipitation with Other Months
Atlanta’s precipitation patterns in December differ significantly from those experienced during other months of the year. While the spring and summer months typically see higher levels of precipitation due to thunderstorms and tropical cyclones, winter months like December experience relatively drier conditions. In comparison to November, December is usually drier but not significantly so, with a decrease in precipitation levels of approximately 0.2 inches.
| Month | Average Precipitation (inches) | Number of Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| December | 3.5 inches | 10 days on average |
| November | 3.7 inches | 11 days on average |
Snowfall Totals in December
While snowfall is rare in Atlanta, December is typically the month with the most significant chances of snow. According to records from the National Weather Service, the average snowfall in Atlanta in December is around 0.4 inches. While this may not sound like a lot, it’s essential to note that snowfall events in Atlanta can be significant, resulting in school closures, traffic disruptions, and other related issues.
| Month | Average Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| December | 0.4 inches |
Other Forms of Precipitation in December
In addition to rain and snow, Atlanta can experience other forms of precipitation in December. Fog is a common occurrence, especially during the morning hours, while sleet and freezing rain can also impact the area. While these events may not occur frequently, they can still cause disruptions to everyday life, making it essential to stay informed about the latest weather updates.
- Fog: common in the morning hours, especially when temperatures drop significantly overnight
- Sleet and Freezing Rain: occasional events that can cause significant disruptions
Weather Hazards in December
December in Atlanta brings a mix of winter weather patterns, including cold fronts, winter storms, and even the occasional tornado. While the city is well-equipped to handle snowfall, its lack of experience with significant winter storms often leads to disruptions in daily life.
Types of Severe Weather in December
Winter storms and ice storms are the most common types of severe weather that occur in December in Atlanta. These events can bring significant disruptions to transportation, power, and daily life. Tornadoes, while less common, can occur during December, especially in the southeastern United States.
Significant Weather Events in December
- Winter Storm of 1989: On December 8, 1989, a powerful winter storm brought significant snowfall to Atlanta, with some areas receiving over 10 inches of snow. The storm caused widespread disruptions, with roads becoming impassable and over 100,000 people losing power.
- Ice Storm of 2000: On December 14, 2000, a strong cold front brought a large area of freezing rain to Atlanta, causing widespread power outages and disruptions. The storm left over 500,000 households without power and caused an estimated $10 million in damages.
- Tornado Outbreak of 2002: On December 10-11, 2002, a strong storm system brought a series of tornadoes to the southeastern United States, including several in Georgia. The outbreak caused significant damage and claimed 7 lives, with over 200 injuries reported.
These weather events highlight the potential risks and challenges associated with December weather in Atlanta. While the city is well-prepared to handle many of these events, it is essential for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions during severe weather.
Precautions and Preparations
The City of Atlanta and its emergency management agencies take various precautions to prepare for and respond to severe weather events in December. These preparations include:
- Activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate response efforts
- Issuance of timely weather alerts and warnings to residents
- Deployment of snowplows and other winter maintenance equipment to clear roads
- Activation of emergency shelters and warming centers for those in need
- Cooperation with utility companies to restore power and other essential services
Planning for December Weather
Planning for the winter season in Atlanta requires preparation for the changing weather conditions. The city can experience mild temperatures, heavy precipitation, and occasional snowfall, making it essential for residents to be prepared. In this section, we will discuss strategies for staying safe during severe weather events and provide a comparison of different parts of the city to help residents plan for the winter season.
Winter Weather Comparison in Atlanta
Different parts of Atlanta can experience varying weather conditions during the winter season. Understanding these differences can help residents plan accordingly.
| Region | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Wind Conditions |
| — | — | — | — |
| Downtown Atlanta | 45-50 | 3-4 | Gentle breezes |
| Inman Park | 40-45 | 4-5 | Moderate winds |
| Buckhead | 45-50 | 2-3 | Light winds |
| Marietta | 40-45 | 5-6 | Strong gusts |
| Decatur | 42-47 | 3-4 | Variable winds |
Staying Safe During Severe Weather Events, December weather in atlanta
Severe weather events can pose a significant threat to residents’ safety. It is essential to have a plan in place to ensure everyone’s well-being.
* Prepare a winter emergency kit with essential items, such as a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and warm blankets.
* Have a backup plan for alternative heat and light sources in case of power outages.
* Create a communication plan with family members, including a designated meeting spot and contact information.
* Stay informed about weather conditions through reliable sources, such as the National Weather Service.
* Keep a battery-powered radio and a NOAA Weather Radio on hand to stay updated on weather alerts and forecasts.
* Consider investing in a generator or installing hurricane shutters to protect your home from strong winds and heavy precipitation.
Alternative Heat and Light Sources
In the event of a power outage, having a backup plan for heat and light sources can be a lifesaver.
* Portable generators can provide electricity for essential appliances, such as refrigerators, computers, and medical equipment.
* Candles and lanterns can provide light, but use caution to avoid fires.
* Fireplaces and woodstoves can be used for heating, but make sure to follow safety guidelines and have a carbon monoxide detector.
* Solar-powered chargers can be used to charge devices, such as phones and laptops.
* Battery-powered lights, such as flashlights and LED candles, can provide reliable and safe lighting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, December weather in Atlanta is characterized by cooler temperatures, moderate precipitation, and occasional extreme weather events. It is essential for residents to be prepared for these conditions and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the winter season.
Q&A
Q: What is the average snowfall in December in Atlanta?
A: The average snowfall in December in Atlanta is about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm), but it is not uncommon for the city to experience more significant snowfall events every few years.
Q: What are the most common types of precipitation in December in Atlanta?
A: The most common types of precipitation in December in Atlanta are rain and snow showers, with freezing rain and sleet also possible.
Q: What is the average temperature in Atlanta in December?
A: The average high temperature in December is around 52°F (11°C), while the low temperature averages 38°F (3°C).
