Showers and severe thunderstorms have hit metro Atlanta day in and day out since the first few days of June.
The Atlanta-area is recovering from severe storms on June 7–8, which caused one fatality in Banks County when a tree fell on a car and left over 200,000 without power. Cleanup continues in areas like Dunwoody and Roswell, where trees and power lines were downed.
Why Is It Raining So Much in Atlanta?
Atlanta’s heavy rainfall in mid-June 2025 stems from a combination of seasonal weather patterns and specific meteorological conditions.
“We’ve gotten 7 inches of rain this month,” Atlanta News First meteoroligist Ella Dorsey posted on social media.
Here’s is what’s been going on with Atlanta’s stormy weather:
- Summer Weather Patterns: Atlanta’s subtropical climate typically brings increased rainfall during summer due to high humidity and heat, which fuel thunderstorms. June is often one of the wetter months, with average rainfall around 4–5 inches.
- Current Conditions: Recent weather data indicates a stalled frontal boundary over the Southeast, combined with abundant moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. This setup creates frequent showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon and evening when daytime heating peaks. The National Weather Service (NWS) Atlanta noted scattered thunderstorms in the forecast for June 16, with potential for heavy rain due to slow-moving storms.
- Recent Storms: Metro Atlanta is still recovering from severe storms on June 7–8, which dumped significant rain and caused widespread damage. The lingering effects of these systems, along with saturated soils, amplify the perception of excessive rain.
- Climate Context: While Atlanta’s rainfall is within normal seasonal bounds, climate change may intensify extreme weather events, leading to heavier downpours when storms occur. However, no specific data ties the current rainfall directly to long-term climate trends.
Rainy Days in Atlanta: How To Prepare
- Carry Rain Gear: Keep an umbrella, raincoat, or poncho handy. Waterproof shoes or boots are ideal for navigating wet streets or sidewalks, especially in areas prone to puddling like Downtown or Midtown.
- Stay Weather-Aware: Monitor the National Weather Service Atlanta or apps like AccuWeather for real-time alerts on thunderstorms, which may bring lightning, gusty winds, or heavy rain. Have a NOAA weather radio or phone alerts enabled for severe weather warnings.
- Plan Outdoor Activities: With afternoon and evening storms likely, schedule outdoor plans (e.g., Father’s Day events or Juneteenth festivals) for earlier in the day or check for indoor alternatives. Venues like the College Football Hall of Fame or High Museum of Art offer sheltered activities.
Home and Property
- Check Drainage: Clear gutters, storm drains, and downspouts to prevent flooding, especially after the June 7–8 storms left some areas waterlogged. Low-lying neighborhoods like Peachtree Hills or parts of DeKalb County are flood-prone.
- Secure Outdoor Items: High winds often accompany Atlanta thunderstorms. Secure patio furniture, trash cans, or decorations to avoid damage or debris hazards.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Recent storms caused widespread outages (over 200,000 affected earlier this month). Keep flashlights, batteries, and a charged power bank ready. If you have a generator, ensure it’s functional and safely stored.
- Driving Safety: Atlanta’s roads, like I-285 or I-75/85, can become slick or flooded during heavy rain. Maintain extra stopping distance, use headlights, and avoid flooded areas (e.g., underpasses in Downtown). Check 511 Georgia or Waze for road closures or delays.
- Airport Travel: If heading to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, arrive three hours early due to high traffic (195,000+ travelers expected this week). Monitor flight statuses, as thunderstorms can cause delays. Park in covered lots if possible to avoid wet treks.
Final Word
Rain is no fun, but it’s life. If you’re dealing with flooding or travel issues, monitor road conditions via 511 Georgia or Atlanta’s DOT updates.
Also, MARTA buses and trains may face delays during heavy rain. Check MARTA’s app or website for service updates, especially for routes in flood-prone areas like West End or East Atlanta.
