When will GA get its first frost this year? Find forecast dates by city and town here

You’ve likely noticed the nip in the air the last few mornings, and it may have put you into a winter state of mind. But even though these cooler temperatures are fleeting, Georgia’s first frost may be on the way.

Looking at frost dates compiled by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), outdoor magazine Almanac can predict when an area will get its first frost.

Through its zip code search database, Georgia weather-watchers can see when they can expect the first frost of the season.

Georgia cities and predicted frost dates

• Albany: Nov 14
• Alpharetta: Oct 30
• Athens: Nov 4
• Atlanta: Nov 2
• Augusta: Nov 26
• Buena Vista: Nov 10
• Columbus: Nov 16
• Dahlonega: Oct 19
• Helen: Oct 22
• Lagrange: Nov 1
• Lumpkin: Oct 31
• Macon: Nov 4
• Manchester: Oct 29
• Milledgeville: Nov 4
• Newnan: Oct 30
• Roswell: Nov 2
• Savannah: Nov 21
• Talbotton: Oct 29
• Upatoi: Nov 6
• Valdosta: Nov 20
• Warner Robins: Nov 12

Almanac uses frost dates based on 1991-2020 climate data and it bases its frost predictions on a 30% probability you’ll see frost before or after that date. This means it’s just a guideline for planning, not a sure thing.

Frost vs. freeze

The difference between a frost and a freeze primarily involves where and how cold temperatures affect surfaces and plants, and the temperature range involved.

Frost

• Surfaces cool to 32°F (0°C) or below, even if the air temperature nearby is slightly above freezing
• Visible as ice crystals or a frost coating on surfaces
• Typically affects only  the exterior surface of plants causing limited damage 
• Can occur when air temperatures are in the mid to upper 30s °F 

Freeze

• Air temperature itself falls to 32°F (0°C) or below over several feet or more above the ground
• Prolonged cold conditions where the interior tissues of plants also freeze
• A “hard freeze” refers to temperatures dropping to 28°F (-2°C) or lower
• Plants sustain internal damage where water inside cells freezes

While these dates offer a good snapshot of when to expect the chill, Georgia’s weather has a way of surprising even lifelong residents. Keep an eye on local forecasts as the season shifts and be ready to shift into cold weather mode soon.