Geography of Atlanta

The Geography of Atlanta covers an area of 132.4 square miles (342.9 km²), with most of this being land and a small part being water. The city sits among the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and stands at an elevation of 1,050 feet (320 m) above sea level, making it the highest major city east of the Mississippi River. Because of this height, Atlanta experiences cooler temperatures compared to other cities at similar latitudes.

Atlanta is located on the Eastern Continental Divide, which means that rainwater on the south and east side of the city flows toward the Atlantic Ocean, while water on the north and west side flows into the Gulf of Mexico. The city rests on a ridge south of the Chattahoochee River, which is part of the larger ACF River Basin. Near the northwestern edge of Atlanta, the natural habitat along the river is protected in places such as the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.

Climate

The climate of Atlanta and its surrounding areas is humid subtropical, with four seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cool and sometimes cold. The city is in a plant hardiness zone that allows for a variety of plants to grow.

Summers in Atlanta are long and consistently hot and humid. Average temperatures in July reach around 80°F, with occasional spikes above 100°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer. Winters are milder, with average January temperatures around 43°F. Snow is rare but can occur, usually between December and March.

Atlanta receives plenty of rainfall throughout the year, with spring and early fall tend to be drier. The city gets more rain than places like Seattle, thanks to frequent thunderstorms and occasional tropical storms. The geography of the area influences the weather, with temperature differences across the region and effects from nearby mountains and valleys.

Environmental issues

Atlanta has faced challenges with air quality. In 2007, it was ranked among the cities with high levels of tiny particles in the air. This, along with pollen and other factors, made it difficult for people with breathing problems to live there. To help improve the air, the area started checking vehicle emissions every year in 2010.

There are also efforts to make Atlanta a greener place. Projects like the BeltLine and Atlantic Station aim to create spaces where people can live, work, and enjoy the area. In 2009, the Virginia-Highland neighborhood became the first area in the United States to balance out its carbon footprint. Local businesses helped support a forest project in rural Georgia.