Spring-Like Warmth and Tracking Rain: Atlanta's Friday Forecast

A Warm and Active Friday in the A

Atlanta residents can expect a significant departure from the typical February chill today, Friday, February 20, 2026, as unseasonably warm air moves into the region. While the morning may start with a damp commute, the afternoon promises record-challenging temperatures before another wave of moisture moves in after sunset. This unusual warmth serves as a brief preview of spring, though it comes with a side of turbulent weather.

Morning: Early Showers and Humid Starts

The day begins with a high probability of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms moving across the metro area. Forecasters indicate that early morning commuters should prepare for wet roads and reduced visibility, as a localized system pushes through. Humidity levels are expected to be quite high, hovering around 87% in the early hours, making the morning air feel heavy. Temperatures will start in the mid-50s and rise rapidly as the sun attempts to break through the initial cloud cover.

Afternoon: Peak Warmth and Breezy Skies

As we head into the afternoon, the rain is expected to taper off, giving way to partly cloudy skies. This window will see temperatures climb to a daily high of approximately 75°F (24°C). To put this in perspective, this is nearly 20 degrees above the long-term seasonal average for Atlanta in late February. Residents planning outdoor activities at Piedmont Park or along the BeltLine should be mindful of the wind; breezes are expected to pick up from the west-southwest at 10 to 15 mph, providing a steady wind throughout the peak of the day.

Evening and Overnight: Rain Returns

The dry spell experienced in the afternoon will be short-lived. By Friday evening, clouds will thicken once again as a more substantial weather system approaches from the west. The evening forecast includes:

• Rain Probability: A 70% chance during the day, increasing to 75% late tonight.
• Temperature: An evening low settling near 55°F, much warmer than the usual freezing temperatures typical for this month.
• Conditions: Increasing cloudiness with periods of heavier showers expected after midnight.

Weather Alerts and Storm Potential

While the immediate Atlanta metro area is mainly looking at standard rain showers, the National Weather Service has issued a caution for Northwest Georgia. There is a potential for some storms to become severe in those northern counties tonight, with hail identified as the primary threat. For those remaining in the city, the main concern will be navigating the heavier bursts of rain and potential ponding on roadways during the late-night hours. Keep your umbrellas close, as this warm front brings plenty of moisture along with the heat.