ATLANTA — We're springing from comfortable temperatures and humidity to middle of summer heat in a matter of days. Atlanta will have its first 90 degree day of the year this weekend, which will kick off an extended stretch of highs in the 90s that will last well into next week.
Atlanta's average high temperature during the first 20 days of May has been in the mid 70s. Now, our average high temps for the next week will be above 90 degrees!
Atlanta's average first 90 degree day of the year is June 2nd, according to the new climate normals from 1991 through 2020. Last year, it took until June 20th before Atlanta had its first day in the 90s.
The heat will peak early next week. Highs will be in the mid 90s Tuesday and Atlanta will flirt with the record of 94 from 2019.
Why the pattern change?
An 'omega block' upper level weather setup locks a big ridge or dome of high pressure into place over the eastern United States. For the southeast right under that high, the heat will build and storms potential will be suppressed. Outside the influence of the high pressure, stormier setups will take place out west and also in the Atlantic, where subtropical development is possible.
Weather Stats: How many 90s Atlanta normally sees
Atlanta is known for its streaks of 90 degree days in the middle of summer in July and August. On average, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport averages forty-six 90-degree days a year. Last year in 2020, we were right around average with 45 days. The record number of 90-degree days is 91 from 2019.
Looking Ahead: Summer Heat
The Climate Prediction Center's 3 month temperature outlook is below, calling for greater than average chances of above average temperatures. Translation: expect some hot temps this summer. Although we can't tell you how many days in the 90s we'll have or how extreme the heat will be, this trend tells us that we'll likely see plenty of 'dog days of summer' in the Peach State.
