Calm Before the Cold: Atlanta Greets Gray Skies as Winter Emergency Looms

Morning Conditions: A Damp Start to Friday

Atlanta residents waking up this Friday, January 23, 2026, are greeted by thick, overcast skies and a damp atmosphere. As of 7:44 AM, the temperature at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport sits at a chilly 47°F with a humidity level near 86%. Early commuters likely encountered light mist or localized drizzle, as the National Weather Service reported a 30% chance of showers primarily before 7:00 AM. While the heaviest precipitation has moved out for the moment, the cloud cover remains stubborn, casting a somber gray hue over the metro area.

Afternoon Outlook: Mild Temps and Quiet Winds

The middle of the day will offer a brief period of atmospheric stability. High temperatures are expected to peak near 50°F, which is relatively typical for late January in North Georgia. Winds will remain light and manageable, starting from a calm state and shifting to a northerly direction at approximately 5 mph by mid-afternoon. Despite the lack of sunshine, outdoor visibility remains good at 10 miles, though the lack of solar heating will make the 50-degree high feel closer to 46°F due to the persistent moisture in the air.

Evening and Nighttime: The Chill Returns

As the sun sets at 5:59 PM, temperatures will begin a steady decline toward an overnight low of 37°F. The clouds are expected to remain firmly in place throughout the evening hours. Winds will once again become calm after midnight, but the relative stillness belies a significant shift in the regional weather pattern. While only a 10% to 20% chance of rain is forecast for Friday night, the high humidity levels will likely lead to patchy fog in lower-lying areas across Fulton and Cobb counties.

Critical Alerts: State of Emergency and Winter Storm Watch

While today’s weather is largely uneventful beyond the gray skies, officials are urging Atlantans to use this Friday to prepare for hazardous conditions. Governor Brian Kemp has already issued a preemptive State of Emergency for Georgia in anticipation of a significant winter weather event. The National Weather Service has officially placed Atlanta under a Winter Storm Watch starting Saturday afternoon, January 24.

• Current Status: Operations for Friday are proceeding as scheduled across the metro area.
• Incoming Hazard: Predictions include winter precipitation, freezing temperatures, and potential power outages beginning Saturday.
• Preparation: Residents are advised to stock up on essential supplies and monitor local alerts as the mild 50-degree temperatures of Friday give way to a freezing mix over the weekend.