Savannah Weather Guide: Seasonal Climate & Rainfall Tips

Savannah, Georgia, sits in a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa), characterized by its lush greenery, moss-draped oaks, and weather that often feels like a warm embrace. Because of its coastal location near the mouth of the Savannah River, the city experiences significant humidity variations that dictate the rhythm of daily life.

Daily Weather Rhythms

In Savannah, the day often begins with a heavy, maritime mist or dew, especially in the spring and summer. Mornings are typically the clearest part of the day, providing a brief window of crispness before the sun begins to draw moisture from the surrounding marshes.

As the afternoon arrives, particularly from June through September, the city follows a predictable cycle: heat builds until about 3:00 PM, triggering a sudden, intense thunderstorm. These storms are a hallmark of the local climate—they arrive with dramatic thunder, drop heavy rain for 30 to 60 minutes, and leave the air smelling of ozone and wet earth. While the rain provides a temporary drop in temperature, the "steam bath" effect follows as the sun reappears and evaporates the standing water.

Seasonal Trends

• Spring (March – May): Often considered the "Chamber of Commerce" weather, spring is defined by mild temperatures and the arrival of the azalea bloom. Dew points are still relatively low, making the 70°F to 80°F (21°C–27°C) days feel exceptionally pleasant.
• Summer (June – August): This is the season of "Sultry Savannah." Temperatures consistently hit the 90s°F (32°C+), and the dew point often exceeds 70°F, creating a heat index that can reach 105°F (40°C). Thunderstorms are nearly daily occurrences.
• Fall (September – November): Fall brings a palpable shift in late September as the humidity breaks. October is historically the sunniest and driest month, featuring clear blue skies and crisp evenings that locals call "the great relief."
• Winter (December – February): Winters are short and mild. While nighttime frosts are common, daytime highs usually hover around 60°F (16°C). Snow is an extremely rare, decade-level event; however, cold snaps can occasionally bring freezing temperatures when Arctic air masses push deep into the South.

Microclimates and Variations

Savannah’s weather varies slightly depending on your proximity to the water.

• The Historic District: The dense canopy of live oaks in the city’s famous squares creates "islands of shade" that can feel several degrees cooler than the paved outskirts.
• Tybee Island & The Coast: Just 20 minutes east, the barrier islands experience a maritime microclimate. Intense summer afternoons are often tempered by a steady sea breeze that keeps the coast slightly cooler than downtown, while in winter, the ocean's thermal mass keeps the islands slightly warmer.

Historical Context and Phenomena

Savannah is historically part of the Atlantic hurricane belt. While direct hits are infrequent compared to Florida or the Gulf Coast, the city is sensitive to storm surges due to its low elevation and intricate network of tidal creeks. Significant historical events, like the Sea Islands Hurricane of 1893, shaped the city's drainage and emergency planning.

A unique local phenomenon is the "Resurrection Fern" seen on live oaks. After a heavy rain, these grey, seemingly dead ferns instantly turn vibrant green—a visual indicator of the region's high humidity and frequent rainfall cycles.

Local Perspective: Living with the Humidity

Locals don't just endure the weather; they adapt to it. The "Savannah Slow" is a real cultural adaptation to the summer heat—people move more deliberately in the afternoons, and outdoor social life often shifts to the "porch hours" of twilight.

The city's architecture also tells a story of climate adaptation. Historic homes feature high ceilings, large windows, and deep covered porches (often painted "Haint Blue" on the underside) designed to facilitate cross-breezes and provide shade. In modern times, air conditioning is treated as a critical utility not just for cooling, but for moisture control to prevent the growth of local molds and mildews.