Atlanta is preparing for a significant weather event expected to impact the city this afternoon and evening.
City departments, public safety agencies and the National Weather Service are actively monitoring conditions and have crews and resources ready to respond as needed. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay weather aware, especially if traveling downtown for FIFA World Cup 2026™ events or other activities across the city.
The greatest impacts are expected between 3 p.m. and midnight, when heavy rain, strong winds and localized flooding are possible.
What to Expect
Forecasters are calling for:
- Heavy rainfall and reduced visibility
- Localized street and roadway flooding
- Wind gusts up to 40 mph
- Possible downed trees and power outages
- Travel delays throughout the city
- A low risk of isolated tornadoes
Rainfall could be intense at times, with some areas seeing one to two inches of rain per hour. Conditions may change quickly during the afternoon and evening commute.
If You’re Heading Downtown
Residents and visitors should plan for changing weather conditions this afternoon and evening and allow extra travel time.
The FIFA Fan Festival™ is expected to close at 3 p.m. due to forecasted weather conditions. Anyone planning to attend downtown activities should monitor official event communications and weather updates before traveling.
Conditions may deteriorate rapidly after 3 p.m., with the greatest impacts expected through the evening hours.
How the City Is Preparing
Departments across the City are in an active response posture ahead of the storm.
Department of Watershed Management crews are monitoring drainage systems and flood-prone areas across the city.
Atlanta Department of Transportation teams have pre-positioned barricades at locations that historically experience flooding and will monitor road conditions throughout the day.
Atlanta Fire Rescue has emergency response and swift-water rescue teams on standby.
Atlanta Police Department officers are prepared to assist with traffic control, road closures and public safety operations if conditions worsen.
ATL311 and E911 are maintaining enhanced operations and stand ready to support residents and visitors.
Officials at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are also coordinating with airline partners and monitoring conditions. Travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airline for any flight updates.
Stay Safe
As weather conditions deteriorate:
- Stay weather aware and monitor local alerts.
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways.
- Move indoors if severe weather warnings are issued.
- Charge phones and electronic devices ahead of time.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
- Allow extra time for travel this afternoon and evening.
Looking Ahead
Current forecasts show the strongest impacts occurring between 3 p.m. and midnight, with conditions expected to gradually improve overnight as the storm system moves east of Atlanta.
The City of Atlanta will continue monitoring conditions and sharing updates as needed.
Stay informed: Follow the City of Atlanta’s social media channels and sign up for NotifyATL for emergency alerts. To register or update your profile, visit NotifyATL or text NOTIFYATL to 24639 for a direct link.
