Georgia is divided into separate climatic regions because of the Chattahoochee River. The mountain region to the northwest is colder than the rest of Georgia, averaging 39°F (4°C) in January and 78°F (26°C) in July. The state experiences mild winters that range from a January average of 44°F (7°C) in the piedmont to 54°F (12°C) on the coast. Summers are hot in both these regions with July temperatures averaging 80°F (27°C) or above. Humidity is high, ranging from 82% in the morning to 56% in the afternoon in Atlanta. Georgia receives an average annual rainfall of 50 inches in the lowlands to 75 inches in the mountains. Tornadoes are an annual threat in mountain areas, and Georgia beaches are exposed to hurricane tides.

Origin of State Name : Named for King George II of England in 1732.

Nickname : The Empire State of the South; also, the Peach State.
Capital: Atlanta.

Entered Union : 2 January 1788 (4th).

Song : "Georgia on My Mind."

Motto : Wisdom, Justice and Moderation.

Flag : Three red-and-white stripes and the state coat of arms in the upper left corner on a field of blue.

Bird : Brown thrasher.

Fish : Largemouth bass.

Insect : Honeybee.

Flower : Cherokee rose.

Wildflowe r : Azalea.

Tree : Live oak.

Gem : Quartz.

Country : 159 counties

Population : 8,186,453; 10th, 12/00

Agriculture : Poultry and eggs, peanuts, cattle, hogs, dairy products, vegetables. Industry: Textiles and apparel, transportation equipment, food processing, paper products, chemical products, electric equipment, tourism.