Georgia – Dry air presses down across north and central Georgia this morning, and it will not take much for fires to spread. Leaves crunch underfoot, flags snap stiffly, and the air feels sharp despite sunshine overhead.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, a Special Weather Statement remains in effect through this evening for much of north and central Georgia. Relative humidity is expected to fall to 25 percent or lower for at least four hours, while northwest winds increase to 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. The combination creates elevated fire danger conditions, especially where fuels remain dry.
Across metro Atlanta, including Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, and Clayton counties, outdoor burning becomes risky quickly. Sparks can travel farther in gusty winds, and fires may grow faster than expected. Drivers along I-75, I-85, and I-20 could encounter sudden smoke near wooded areas, reducing visibility with little warning.
Temperatures climb into the upper 40s this afternoon, helping dry grasses and leaf litter even more. Winds stay active into early evening before slowly easing after sunset. Officials urge residents to follow local burn restrictions and secure trailer chains, fire pits, and grills. Even routine yard work can create ignition sources under these conditions.
Tonight turns calmer and cold, with lows near 28 degrees. Sunday brings sunshine and lighter winds, easing fire concerns somewhat. A stronger warming trend arrives early next week. By Monday, highs reach the mid-60s, and by Tuesday and Wednesday, temperatures push toward the upper 60s with increasing cloud cover. Rain chances return midweek, which may finally help reduce fire danger.
Until then, use caution outdoors and delay burning if possible. Seeing smoke or fires near your area today? Let us know what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Atlanta, GA
- Today: Sunny, windy at times; high near 47°F
- Tonight: Mostly clear; low near 28°F
- Sunday: Sunny and milder; high near 55°F
- Monday: Mostly sunny and warm; high near 65°F
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, warmer; high near 68°F
