Unseasonably warm weather hits North Georgia, but it's a false spring
Tuesday morning weather forecast
Tuesday is off to a foggy start, but once that clears out, we'll have sunny skies and unseasonably warm temperatures.
ATLANTA - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia are experiencing unusually warm temperatures, making it feel more like mid-April than early February.
What we know:
Monday’s high reached 73 degrees, and temperatures are expected to climb even higher, hitting 76 degrees today. The warmth will persist throughout the week, with highs in the mid-70s through Friday and possibly reaching 78 degrees on Saturday.
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However, this warm spell is considered a "false spring." The average February high in metro Atlanta is typically around 58 degrees, with lows ranging from the upper 20s to upper 30s in areas like Gainesville, Dalton, Clayton, Blairsville, and Rome. Despite the current warmth, it’s too early to plant sensitive vegetation, as frost and freezing temperatures are still possible.
The backstory:
False springs are not uncommon in North Georgia. The highest February temperature on record was 83 degrees on Feb. 22, 2019. While extreme temperatures are rare in February, the region occasionally experiences both cold snaps and mild days.
What's next:
A cold front and a dip in the jet stream are expected to bring cooler temperatures next week. Highs will drop to the 40s and 50s, which aligns more closely with seasonal averages. Atlanta typically doesn’t see its last freezing day until mid-March.
Also, don't forget that Georgia's very own weather prognosticator, General Beauregard "Beau" Lee predicted 6 more weeks of winter on Groundhog Day this past weekend.
Why you should care:
While the warm weather may be enjoyable, it poses risks to the environment. Early warmth can cause plants to break dormancy prematurely, leading to buds and flowers opening too soon. When colder temperatures return, these plants can suffer damage or die, reducing flowering and fruit production.
This disruption extends to local ecosystems, as early plant growth can affect food availability for pollinators and other wildlife. False springs can also harm agricultural crops like fruit trees and cereals, potentially leading to economic losses for farmers.
Local perspective:
Residents should resist the urge to start spring gardening, as frost is still a possibility. Keeping an eye on weather updates and protecting sensitive plants can help mitigate potential damage from the upcoming temperature drop.