Normal rainfall in Atlanta has been considered to be at least 50 inches a year, but the meaning of "normal" might have changed.
Climatologist David Stooksbury, a University of Georgia professor, says that starting in 1979, the Southeast got less rain than during the preceding three decades.
In fact, for eight of the last 11 years, Atlanta has recorded less than 50 inches.
Stooksbury says for many, "the reference point is that period between the end of World War II and the late 70s. If we look at that period climatically, that was an abnormal period abnormally wet."
The average annual rainfall in Gainesville is 54.75 inches.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/1/206217