Author: Tee Johnson

Atlanta, Georgia has been high and dry when it comes to rain in October, the first such month to have zero wetness.

Atlanta typically gets anywhere from 3 to 8 inches of rain this time of year, but this has been uncharacteristically dry this October.

Is it Going To Rain This Month in Atlanta?

With only days left in the month, it’s a real question as to whether it will rain or not in Atlanta. In Georgia, fall is the driest season, especially October, but it’s not generally this dry.

According to Atlanta meteorologist Brad Nitz, we’ve “never been a month with no rain since records began in 1878. We’ve had some very dry months, but it’s conceivable that we end this month with a 0.00″ for the first time.”

What’s the Atlanta Weather Forecast for the Rest of the Month?

The 10-Day forecast for Atlanta weather shows no rain, although it could change.

The thing is, autumn in Atlanta, Georgia, typically sees a fair amount of rainfall. September, October, and November usually experience about 3 to 5 inches of rain each month. While October can be drier compared to September, occasional rain showers still occur. This season often features mild temperatures along with varying humidity levels.

Atlanta Rainfall Totals This Month

How To Take Care Of Your Lawn During Dry Times

aking care of your plants and lawn during dry months requires careful attention to water conservation, soil health, and strategic gardening practices. Here’s a guide to help you maintain a healthy garden and lawn during dry periods:

1. Watering Techniques

• Water Early or Late: Water your plants and lawn in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. This allows the water to penetrate the soil and reach the roots more effectively.
• Deep Watering: Instead of frequent shallow watering, water deeply and less often. This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil where moisture is retained longer.
• Use Drip Irrigation or Soaker Hoses: These systems deliver water directly to the base of plants, reducing waste and ensuring that the water gets to the roots.
• Mulch Around Plants: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as bark, straw, or wood chips) around plants to retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and keep the soil cool.

2. Soil Preparation

• Improve Soil Quality: Add compost or organic matter to your soil to improve its water retention. Good soil with plenty of organic material holds moisture longer and provides essential nutrients.
• Aerate the Lawn: Aerating helps improve water penetration and reduces compaction. This allows water and nutrients to reach the grass roots more efficiently.

3. Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants

• Plant Native Species: Native plants are typically better adapted to local climates, including dry periods. They often require less water and are more resistant to drought.
• Use Drought-Tolerant Plants: Select drought-resistant plants like succulents, lavender, and ornamental grasses. These plants require less water and thrive in dry conditions.
• Group Plants by Water Needs: Organize your garden so that plants with similar water requirements are grouped together. This helps ensure that water is used efficiently and not wasted on plants that don’t need it.

4. Lawn Care Tips

• Mow the Lawn Higher: Set your mower blades to a higher setting (3-4 inches). Longer grass helps shade the soil, reducing evaporation and keeping roots cool.
• Leave Grass Clippings: Grass clippings can act as a natural mulch, helping to retain moisture and add nutrients back into the soil.
• Limit Foot Traffic: Avoid heavy foot traffic on the lawn during dry months, as compacted soil makes it harder for water to penetrate and reach the roots.

Final Word

Dry weather means you’ll have to make some adjustments in how you water your lawn as well as your house plants. For the rest of us? We’ll just have to relax and let nature take its course.

Consider using graywater (recycled water from sinks, showers, etc.) for watering non-edible plants and lawns, where legal. Pay attention to weather forecasts and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Avoid watering when rain is expected.

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When you have a dispute with a neighbor or acquaintance, sometimes things can get legal. You might choose to sue them, but how?

To sue someone in Atlanta, you’ll need to follow a few steps, depending on the type of case and the amount of money involved. Here’s a general guide:

1. Determine Jurisdiction

Small Claims Court (Magistrate Court): If the amount of money involved is $15,000 or less, you can file in the Magistrate Court. This court is designed to handle smaller claims and doesn’t require you to have a lawyer.

State or Superior Court: If the claim exceeds $15,000 or involves specific legal issues (such as property, contracts, or personal injury), you’ll need to file in State or Superior Court.

2. Gather Evidence

In Fulton County and any other court, you’ll need evidence for the discovery phase of the court process. Discovery can include written information exchange, depositions, and requests for production.

Collect all necessary documents, contracts, receipts, or any evidence related to your claim.

If you have witnesses, make sure they are available to testify or provide statements.

3. File a Complaint

In Magistrate Court, you’ll need to file a “Statement of Claim” form, which includes details about the dispute and the relief you are seeking. You can get this form from the court or their website.

For State or Superior Court, you’ll file a more formal complaint with the Clerk of Court. This document outlines the basis of your lawsuit, the facts, and the legal basis for your claim.

4. Pay Filing Fees

Filing fees vary depending on the court and the amount of your claim. In Magistrate Court, fees typically range between $60 and $100. In State or Superior Court, fees may be higher.

5. Serve the Defendant

After filing your lawsuit, the defendant must be formally notified. The court will help you arrange for a sheriff or a process server to deliver the paperwork to the person you’re suing. There is a fee for this service.

• Clerk of court: The clerk of court issues a summons and delivers it for service immediately after the complaint is filed. 
• Marshal’s Department: The Marshal’s Department can serve suits for $50 per party. 
• Private process server: A private process server can also serve suits. You can hire a process server through a law office, accountant, doctor, or individual. 

The defendant has 30 days to answer the complaint after being served. If the defendant doesn’t answer within 30 days, they can file an answer within an additional 15 days by paying all court costs.

6. Wait for a Response

The defendant typically has 30 days to respond to your complaint. If they fail to respond, you may request a default judgment.

f the defendant fails to file an answer within 30 days, the case goes into default. The defendant can file a late answer within 15 days of the case going into default by paying court costs.

Also, the defendant can file a counterclaim if it is related to the plaintiff’s claim and the defendant’s total monetary claims are less than $15,000. Counterclaims are usually heard at the same time as the plaintiff’s claims.

7. Attend Court

Once both parties have been notified, the court will schedule a hearing. Bring all your evidence and be prepared to explain your case.

In Magistrate Court, the process is informal, and you can represent yourself. In higher courts, it’s usually best to have an attorney.

How Should I Dress for Court?

When it’s time to dress for court, you’ll want to wear something generally conservative.

• Men: Wear a suit and tie, or a button-down shirt and slacks. A tie is not required, but if you choose to wear one, avoid flashy patterns. 
• Women: Wear a business-appropriate dress, skirt, or pantsuit. 
• Shoes: Wear your best pair of dress shoes, or the cleanest, plainest shoes you have. 
• Colors: Wear conservative colors, like navy blue, and simple accessories. 
• Avoid: Flashy colors, overly casual attire, jeans, and t-shirts. 

8. Judgment

If the judge rules in your favor, the court will issue a judgment ordering the defendant to pay or take specific action.

If the defendant doesn’t comply with the judgment, you may need to take further steps to enforce it, such as garnishing wages or placing liens.

Final Word

If you’re unsure about the process or your legal standing, it may be wise to consult with an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.

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