ATLANTA — A heat advisory is in effect for Tuesday from noon to 8pm for most of north Georgia. Northeast Georgia is not included in the advisory at this time. Temperatures will move up to 95 degrees Tuesday. The humidity levels will also be oppressive thanks to the high dewpoints. The heat index will be between 105-110 degrees. Your body will have to work harder to cool itself down.
The reason for this sizzling middle of June is a big heat dome building in from the west. The jet stream pushes north, trapping the southeast in an extended stretch of hazy, hot and humid afternoons with limited afternoon storms.
We hit 93 degrees Monday afternoon. That is the hottest temperature so far this year in Atlanta. More heat is on the way for the rest of the week. We'll not only have our hottest temps of the season ahead this week, but we'll also be close to some record highs.
We average 47 days at or above 90° each year in the capital of the Peach State. The record number of days at that threshold is 91 from a few years ago in 2019.
Here's how the forecast highs vs. heat index plays out day by day. Monday will be the first day that many of us could see that triple-digit heat index. Tuesday and Wednesday look equally as hot, but closer to record territory. Tuesday's daily record high is 96°, set in 2016. Wednesday's daily record high is also just 96° from 1952.
With schools out and summer camp season kicking into high gear, it will be particularly important for young vulnerable campers to take breaks from being in the sun and high heat and to stay hydrated. Those who work outside should also be mindful of how easy it becomes to over-exert yourself in this summer dangerous duo of heat and humidity. Know the signs to look for for heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
And for those with furry friends, remember to avoid walking in the afternoons and to avoid paved surfaces. Grassy surfaces remain much cooler in bright sunshine than concrete and asphalt!
