GeorgiaForecasters warn of temperatures approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit and dangerously high heat index values in multiple counties as a wave of extreme summer heat sweeps across North Georgia beginning this weekend and continuing into the first part of next week.
Through Monday and Tuesday, the National Weather Service and the FOX 5 Storm Team predict widespread highs in the mid-to-upper 90s, with some locations perhaps surpassing the 100-degree mark. Due to humid, muggy nights that offer no nighttime reprieve and maintain low temperatures in the 70s, the heat will be particularly intense.
Triple-Digit Heat Expected Early in the Week
Meteorologist Laurann Robinson predicts that temperatures in metro Atlanta and the surrounding areas will continue to rise over the weekend, peaking on Monday and Tuesday.
David Chandley, the chief meteorologist for FOX 5, warned that a significant heat wave with highs of above 100 degrees is imminent in Atlanta.
Monday’s high temperatures are expected to include:
-
Atlanta
: 99 F, with only a 30% chance of afternoon storms -
Rome
: 98 F and scattered storms possible -
LaGrange
: Mid-90s with storms more likely by Thursday -
Eatonton
: Could see 102 F with heat index values well above 100 -
Athens
: Rising from 90 F to near 100 F through the weekend -
Gainesville
: Peaking around 99 F Monday -
Blairsville
: Mid-90s but slightly cooler than surrounding areas
Heat Safety a Priority for Residents
As the intense heat gets worse, officials in North Georgia are advising citizens to exercise caution and stay alert:
-
Stay hydrated
and limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours -
Check on elderly neighbors, children, and pets
-
Make use of
local cooling centers
, which will be open in the following counties:-
DeKalb County
-
Cobb County
-
Clayton County
-
Douglas County
-
Jasper & Newton Counties
-
Marietta
-
-
DeKalb County
-
Cobb County
-
Clayton County
-
Douglas County
-
Jasper & Newton Counties
-
Marietta
Afternoon Storms May Offer Limited Relief
Even though heat is the predominant characteristic, isolated storms can form on certain afternoons. Later in the week, especially by Thursday, when storm chances rise over LaGrange and other western communities, there is the biggest likelihood of rainfall.
Officials emphasize that at least late next week, these storms are not expected to disrupt the overall heat wave pattern.
Stay Informed and Stay Cool
Residents are advised to pay attention to local notifications and take preventative measures against heat-related illnesses, as multiple counties are at danger of severe heat for several days. When feasible, use air-conditioned areas, and stay away from physically demanding activities during the hottest hours of the day.
Have you been to one of Georgia’s cooling centers or gone through a heat-related power outage? Tell us about yourself at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
