Now that classes are in full-swing and students have been settling in, some may have noticed that Georgia weather is somewhat harder to get used to than most. If you are new to Atlanta and the phrase “tornado warning” reminds you of an apocalypse movie, Atlanta weather can be more bearable with these tips and tricks.
As many Tech students have already learned — in Georgia, when it rains, it pours. Owning rain gear such as raincoats, rain boots and umbrellas is a must. It does not matter how durable your sneakers may be. Hiking to class through inches-deep puddles in Air Force I’s is ill-advised.
Investing in a durable pair of rain boots can save you a lot of trouble in the future. If you are vehemently opposed to rain boots, putting newspaper in your shoes can help absorb water and keep your feet dry.
Copies of the Technique are located throughout campus for this purpose. Additionally, it may be helpful to always keep a small umbrella in your backpack. Atlanta weather can go from clear skies to torrential downpour in the blink of an eye.
For those who are new to Georgia, it is important to familiarize yourself with tornado safety. Georgia has an annual tornado season that brings high-speed winds and deadly storms.
When a tornado comes to town, you’ll hear words like “tornado watch” or “tornado warning.”
Tornado watch means a tornado may occur, so you should be mindful of it throughout the day.
Tornado warning indicates that a tornado has been reported in your area, and you should get to safety.
It is best to determine the safest place to hole up in your home before a tornado occurs. Avoid windows, corners and walls connected to the outside of your space. The safest place is the innermost place on the lowest level of your home. Hiding in a closet, bathtub or under a heavy piece of furniture such as a couch can also offer some extra protection.
One week in Georgia can see flooding, snow, clear skies and summer heat. Having a variety of clothes for every season can help prepare you for any weather condition. This is especially true as the seasons change.
Instead of redoing your entire wardrobe, try creating a few outfits that can easily be layered up and down. Winters in Atlanta rarely get too cold, so light layers are best. Having at least one warm coat in your closet can be a lifesaver when unexpectedly chilly temperatures hit.
Springtime in Georgia brings lush colors, blooming plants and enough pollen you could choke. The first line of defense against the coughing, sneezing and eye-itching is allergy medicine, many of which are available over the counter.
However, there are simple everyday routines that can help minimize the pain of pollen. Washing your face as soon as you get home can keep the pollen collected on your face throughout the day from irritating your eyes, nose and throat.
In the case of more extreme allergies, try showering, washing your hair and changing your clothes as soon as you get home to put the most amount of distance between you and the godforsaken tree sperm.
Walking around campus in 90 degree heat can be unbearable. Buying a handheld fan is a great idea if you want to look like a tourist in Orlando. Instead, keep cool by staying hydrated and dressing in lightweight, loose and light-colored clothes. Wearing sunscreen everyday can save your skin from sun damage.
On especially intolerable days, a UV umbrella can be an effective, albeit expensive, investment. Newspapers make an effective and affordable sun shield in a pinch (may I suggest the Technique). Keeping a pair of sunglasses in your backpack or car can protect your eyes on those especially bright days.
Adjusting to the climate of your new home can be daunting. While you may be concerned about how to survive Atlanta weather today, you will learn with time that only true ATLiens give up all together.