Georgia wakes up under a thick gray ceiling, and the air already feels heavy across metro Atlanta. Pavement is dry for now, but that window closes quickly as rain builds toward the city.
According to the National Weather Service, Atlanta, Marietta, Decatur, and Sandy Springs will see a 20% chance of showers after 3 p.m., but conditions rapidly deteriorate tonight. Rain chances surge to 90% between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m., with steady showers moving across the region. The peak impact window targets 8 p.m. to midnight, when I-75, I-85, and I-285 could see slick roads, reduced visibility, and slower traffic. Low-lying areas and underpasses around downtown Atlanta may take on water quickly, especially where drainage is poor.
This is part of a broader system pushing east from the Lower Mississippi Valley, feeding deep Gulf moisture into the Southeast. That setup supports widespread rain and a few thunderstorms capable of brief gusty winds or small hail.
Rain continues into Saturday morning before gradually easing by midday, though roads may remain wet for hours. Periods of moderate rainfall could impact early weekend travel, especially on elevated highways and ramps.
Conditions improve sharply Sunday with sunshine and highs near 69°F, followed by a warming trend into the mid to upper 70s by Monday and near 80°F Tuesday. Another round of showers and storms returns by midweek as the pattern stays active.
Plan for slower travel tonight, avoid water-covered roads, and allow extra time on major highways as rain intensifies during the late evening hours.
