If you’re planning to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Georgia, you’re probably wondering what the weather might do. Most years, you’ll find daytime temps in the 60s and cooler nights in the 40s, with a mix of sun and occasional spring showers. That makes outdoor events, parades, and festivals pretty comfortable, though it’s smart to keep a light jacket or umbrella handy.
Weather changes a bit depending on where you are in the state. Coastal cities like Savannah usually feel warmer and more humid. Northern spots near the mountains stay cooler and sometimes wetter. These differences matter if you’re traveling for the holiday or joining a big outdoor crowd.
Knowing the usual patterns helps you prepare for both the fun and any surprises. Georgia’s St. Patrick’s Day often brings pleasant weather, but spring in the Southeast can flip quickly, so being ready means you can enjoy the celebrations without stress.
Typical Weather Patterns for St. Patrick’s Day in Georgia
Across most of Georgia, you’ll get mild spring conditions by mid-March. Temperatures generally stay comfortable, but rainfall and cloud cover can shift depending on where you land.
Average Temperatures and Climate Overview
St. Patrick’s Day lands right as winter gives way to spring. In Georgia, that usually means you’ll notice things warming up after the colder months.
In Savannah, average highs hit the low 70s °F, and lows slip into the upper 40s °F. Atlanta is farther inland and higher up, so it stays a bit cooler, with highs in the mid-60s °F and lows around the mid-40s °F.
The coastal plain warms up faster than the north. You’ll probably notice a bigger swing between day and night temps in the central and northern parts. Mornings might need a jacket, but by afternoon, you’re fine in short sleeves.
This seasonal shift brings out the crowds. The climate supports long parades, festivals, and gatherings without the summer’s heat or winter’s chill.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
March brings some of the wettest weather in Georgia. Rain shows up often, but you’ll usually see quick showers rather than all-day soakings.
In Savannah, March averages about 4–5 inches of rain. Showers can pop up from coastal troughs, but they usually don’t stick around long. Atlanta gets similar amounts, with light to moderate rain every few days.
Spring means cold and warm air masses clash, so storms can brew. Sometimes you’ll get heavy rain, but flooding isn’t common mid-March. More often, you’ll see spotty afternoon showers or drizzle that clears out for outdoor fun.
If you’re heading to a parade or festival, tossing a small umbrella or light rain jacket in your bag is a good idea. All-day washouts are rare, but it’s always better to be prepared.
Sunshine, Clouds, and Humidity Levels
Most years, you’ll get a mix of sun and clouds for St. Patrick’s Day in Georgia. Coastal places like Savannah catch more breaks of sunshine, while inland areas might hang onto clouds a bit longer.
On average, March brings about 6–7 hours of sunshine each day. So even if clouds linger, you’ll usually get some bright spells. Spring skies can change fast, though.
Humidity stays moderate. In Savannah, you’ll notice more moisture in the air, but it’s nowhere near the muggy summer levels. Up in Atlanta and north Georgia, the air feels drier and more comfortable.
With mild temperatures, moderate humidity, and variable skies, outdoor celebrations are usually pretty manageable. You won’t have to worry about extreme heat or cold.
Weather Variations Across Georgia Regions
Weather in Georgia around mid-March really depends on your location. Coastal cities stay warmer and more humid, while the northern mountains are cooler and sometimes frosty. Central areas land somewhere in the middle, with mild days and cool nights that keep you guessing.
Savannah and Coastal Areas
By mid-March, Savannah and the coast usually see mild, springlike weather. Daytime highs reach the upper 60s to low 70s °F, while nights cool to the upper 40s or low 50s °F.
Humidity starts to tick up, but it’s not summer-sticky yet. Rain is fairly common, with about 8–9 wet days in March. Most showers are light or moderate, though heavier bursts happen sometimes.
The Atlantic Ocean keeps temperatures steadier than inland. Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Location | High °F | Low °F | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savannah | ~70 | ~51 | ~3.2 |
If you’re going to Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, pack a light jacket for the morning and be ready for scattered showers.
Northern Georgia and the Mountains
Up in the Appalachian foothills and Blue Ridge, March stays much cooler. Highs usually stick in the 50s °F, and lows drop into the 30s °F. Frost still happens, and higher spots might see a little snow or freezing rain, though it’s rare.
Rainfall is close to 4 inches for the month, spread over about 9–10 days. With cooler air and lots of clouds, things can feel damp, especially in shady valleys.
Daylight increases fast in March, but evenings stay chilly. If you’re headed to a mountain town, bring warm layers and expect variable conditions. A sunny afternoon can turn cold and wet pretty quickly.
Central and Southern Georgia
Inland regions like Macon and Albany sit between the coast and mountains, both in climate and temperature. Highs in mid-March reach the upper 60s to low 70s °F, and lows settle in the mid-40s °F.
Rain is common but lighter than on the coast, averaging 3–4 inches for the month. Most storms are short, and you’ll get plenty of partly sunny days.
You’ll probably notice bigger swings between day and night temps than in Savannah. Afternoons might feel warm enough for short sleeves, but evenings often call for a sweater. Central and southern Georgia are usually pleasant for outdoor activities, but it’s still smart to keep an umbrella nearby.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Event Weather
Weather really shapes how you experience parades and outdoor gatherings. In Georgia, mid-March usually brings mild to warm temps, but humidity, sea breezes, and passing showers can all play a role in your comfort and plans.
Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade Conditions
Savannah throws one of the country’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades, drawing huge crowds. Highs in mid-March often range from the upper 60s to low 80s, but humidity can make it feel a bit warmer. Mornings start out cooler—think 50s or 60s—before warming up fast.
Light showers sometimes show up this time of year. Forecasts usually mention a 20–30% chance of rain, with the highest odds later in the afternoon. The parade itself, which happens in the morning, usually avoids the rain.
Coastal winds can affect how you feel, too. A strong sea breeze might drop temps into the 60s near the water, so a light layer can come in handy. Pollen peaks in March, and on dry, sunny days it can get heavy.
Impact of Weather on Outdoor Celebrations
The weather doesn’t just affect the parade—it shapes all the outdoor events around it. Warm afternoons in the 70s and 80s bring crowds out to parks, squares, and the riverfront. Muggy air and high pollen counts can be tough if you’re sensitive, though.
Rain showers, when they roll in, are usually brief. They might delay a concert or food festival, but rarely shut things down. Sometimes a cold front brings thunderstorms, but those usually show up later in the weekend—not during the main parade.
Temperature swings are worth noting. You might start in a jacket and end up in short sleeves. If a front moves through, cooler air settles in by the next morning, and lows can drop into the 40s inland.
Tips for Attending Festivities
To stay comfortable, toss a small umbrella or poncho in your bag just in case. A light jacket for the morning and breathable clothes for the afternoon help you roll with the temperature changes.
If you’ll be on your feet for a while, wear comfy shoes and bring water. Warmth, humidity, and crowds can dehydrate you faster than you’d think.
Allergy sufferers, heads up: tree pollen is high in March. Sunglasses, antihistamines, or even a mask can make a big difference. Try to get there early for a good spot—parade routes and nearby events fill up fast no matter the weather.
Common Weather Hazards and Precautions
Mid-March in Georgia often brings unsettled spring weather. Rain, sharp temperature swings, and rising pollen can all affect your outdoor plans and travel.
Showers and Thunderstorms Risk
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are common this time of year. Warm, moist air from the Gulf runs into cooler air, stirring up unstable conditions. Some storms bring heavy downpours, gusty winds, and the occasional lightning bolt.
Short but intense rain showers can make roads slick and visibility low. If you’re driving, give yourself extra time and keep headlights on when it rains. Outdoor events might get interrupted by quick-moving storms, so checking radar before heading out is smart.
Severe weather is less likely than in late spring, but it’s not impossible. Tornadoes are rare, but strong storms can still bring small hail or localized flooding in low spots. A light rain jacket and a backup indoor plan are practical.
Temperature Swings and Wind
Temperatures around St. Patrick’s Day can change fast in Georgia. Afternoon highs often reach the 60s or 70s °F, but mornings can still dip into the 40s. Dressing for a long day outside gets tricky.
Layers really help. Wear a light sweater or jacket in the morning, and peel it off as things warm up. Breezy conditions are common, especially after a front moves through.
Winds usually stay moderate, but gusts can feel stronger in open spaces or near water. Sometimes it feels cooler than the thermometer says. If you’re going to a parade or festival, secure lightweight stuff like hats or folding chairs.
Pollen and Spring Allergies
By mid-March, trees like oak, pine, and cedar start dumping pollen across Georgia. On dry, breezy days, pollen counts can spike and trigger itchy eyes, sneezing, or fatigue if you have allergies.
You can check daily pollen levels in local forecasts. If you’re sensitive, try to limit outdoor activity in the early morning, when pollen is thickest. Closing windows at night and using air filters can help indoors.
For outdoor events, sunglasses and hats keep pollen out of your eyes and hair. Carry tissues or allergy meds to make things more comfortable. Rain showers can give temporary relief by washing pollen away, but it comes back once things dry out.
How to Stay Updated on St. Patrick’s Day Weather
You can get ready for St. Patrick’s Day events in Georgia by checking local weather sources, following expert forecasts, and keeping your plans flexible. Staying in the loop helps you avoid surprises and adjust your day as needed.
Local News and Weather Apps
Local television stations still give you some of the most reliable weather updates in Georgia. Outlets like WJCL 22 News pop in with frequent updates, especially right before big events like parades or outdoor gatherings.
Their broadcasts usually highlight neighborhood-level forecasts. Honestly, that’s way more helpful than those broad regional reports.
If you download the WJCL 22 News app, you’ll get push alerts, live radar, and hour-by-hour breakdowns. These tools make it easier to decide if you should grab a jacket, umbrella, or maybe just sunscreen.
The app lets you set custom locations too. So you can keep an eye on your home and wherever the event’s happening.
Other national apps like NOAA Weather Radar or Weather Channel can help as backups. Still, local apps usually focus on the exact conditions you’ll see in Savannah, Augusta, or even smaller Georgia towns where St. Patrick’s celebrations pop up.
Expert Meteorologist Insights
It’s worth following experienced meteorologists because they give you context that raw numbers on an app just can’t. For example, Jeremy Nelson, Chief Meteorologist at WJCL 22, often breaks down how weather patterns like cold fronts or Gulf moisture could affect parade-day weather. He explains why a forecast might suddenly change.
Meteorologists who’ve watched Georgia’s weather for decades can spot trends that short-term models miss. They’ll tell you if a warm stretch looks like it’ll stick around or if a cold snap could sneak in. That’s super helpful when you’re picking out clothes or deciding how long to stay outside.
You can catch these updates on TV, through social media, or straight in the WJCL 22 News app. Many meteorologists even answer viewer questions, so you can ask about timing or how much rain to expect.
Planning Ahead for Weather Changes
March weather in Georgia swings fast, so you need to plan for some flexibility. Even if the average high sits near 70°F, past records show anything from the low 40s up to almost 90°F.
Light rain happens, though big downpours aren’t as common.
Before you head out, throw together a simple checklist:
- Clothing layers for chilly mornings and warmer afternoons
- Rain gear like ponchos or small umbrellas
- Comfortable shoes for wet or uneven ground
Check the forecast at least twice in the 48 hours before the event. Updates on the morning of the event matter most, since weather can shift overnight.
If you’re heading to a parade, figure out where the nearest shelters, restaurants, or covered spots are, just in case rain shows up.
Historical Weather Trends and Notable Years
St. Patrick’s Day weather in Georgia has swung all over the place through the years. Some years felt like early summer, while others started with frosty mornings or even storms that threw off people’s plans.
These shifts really show how quickly things can change in mid-March around here.
Record Highs and Lows
Most years, Georgia’s mid-March highs land somewhere between the upper 50s and upper 60s. But, if you look back, you’ll find some wild extremes. In Atlanta, highs have hit the low 80s on rare days, making it feel like spring arrives early.
Cold snaps have left their mark, too. Lows sometimes drop into the 20s, especially up north. Those chilly mornings usually follow clear nights when all the warmth escapes fast.
Sure, it doesn’t happen every year, but cold spells remind you that winter can still hang around in March.
Here’s a quick look at past records:
| Location | Record High (°F) | Record Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | 82 | 24 |
| Macon | 85 | 27 |
| Savannah | 86 | 31 |
These numbers make it clear—Georgia’s weather can surprise you, depending on where you are.
Memorable Storms and Events
Beyond temperature swings, St. Patrick’s Day in Georgia has sometimes brought severe weather. March thunderstorms aren’t exactly rare, and some years, hail, heavy rain, and damaging winds have disrupted parades and outdoor get-togethers.
In places like Savannah, where huge crowds turn out for the festivities, rain has occasionally forced organizers to delay or even cancel events. Sometimes, strong cold fronts sweep through right in the middle of everything, dropping temperatures fast and making things pretty windy along the parade routes.
Northern Georgia deals with its own weather curveballs. Every once in a while, the Appalachian foothills get a late-season frost or even a dusting of snow. People don’t expect that in mid-March, so it definitely stands out when it happens.
So, while most folks hope for that classic mild weather, it’s smart to keep an eye out for sudden storms or a quick blast of winter sneaking back in.