Right now, if you step outside in Atlanta, you're looking at a temperature of 45°F.
Honestly, it feels a bit more biting than that. With the wind coming in from the southwest at 9 mph, the actual "feels like" temperature is sitting at 41°F. It’s one of those damp, chilly nights where the air just seems to cling to you. We've got a humidity level of 91%, which explains that heavy, misty sensation.
There's a light rain falling currently. If you’re checking the radar, you’ll see an 80% chance of precipitation through the rest of the night. It’s definitely not the kind of weather for a light jacket; you’ll want something waterproof and warm if you’re heading out.
Why the Temperature in Atlanta is All Over the Place Today
Looking at the broader picture for Saturday, January 17, 2026, Atlanta is experiencing a pretty significant swing. Earlier, the high hit 52°F, which is fairly standard for a Georgia January. But don't let that afternoon peak fool you.
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The forecast for the rest of the day and into tonight shows a low of 31°F. That’s a 21-degree drop. When people talk about "Georgia weather" being unpredictable, this is exactly what they mean. You start the day in a sweater and end it worrying about the pipes freezing.
The Transition to Ice and Snow
As we move deeper into the night, the conditions are shifting. While it's just a light rain now, the temperature is expected to plummet. We are looking at:
- A transition from rain to cloudy skies as the main system moves through.
- A 20% chance of snow overnight as the mercury hits that 31°F mark.
- Sustained winds from the west at about 8 mph.
It’s a classic "wedge" scenario where the cold air starts pushing in, and if there's any moisture left, things get interesting. Most of the heavy rain will have passed by the time it gets truly cold, but that 20% chance of flurries is enough to make any Atlantan head for the grocery store for bread and milk.
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Historic Context: Is 45°F Normal?
Statistically speaking, yes. The average high for Atlanta in mid-January is usually around 53°F, with lows averaging 35°F. Today’s high of 52°F and low of 31°F are almost perfectly aligned with historical norms.
We aren't seeing anything record-breaking today. For comparison, the highest temperature ever recorded in Atlanta on January 15th was 73°F back in 2017. On the flip side, we've seen it drop to a bone-chilling -8°F in January 1985. So, 45°F with some light rain? It’s just a standard, gloomy winter day in the A.
What to Expect for the Rest of the Weekend
If you're planning your Sunday, keep that low of 31°F in mind. The city has already opened warming centers at locations like the Old Adamsville Recreation Center and James Orange Park because even though 31°F isn't "Arctic," it's dangerous for those without proper shelter.
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The wind is going to stay fairly consistent, shifting from the southwest to the west. This usually brings in drier air, which means the 91% humidity we're seeing now should drop significantly by tomorrow morning, leaving us with a much crisper, "dry" cold.
Quick Prep Steps for the Current Temp
- Layers are your best friend: Since it feels like 41°F but might drop to 31°F, a moisture-wicking base layer is key if you're outside.
- Check your tires: Sudden drops in temperature like the one we're seeing tonight can trigger your tire pressure light.
- Watch the roads: With rain currently falling and temperatures dropping to freezing (31°F) overnight, be wary of black ice on bridges and overpasses early tomorrow morning.
Basically, it’s a typical January night. Keep the umbrella handy for the next few hours, then swap it for a heavy coat as that west wind starts to bite.