Portions of central, east central, north central, northeast, northwest, southeast and west central Georgia will be affected by high temperatures Friday, and a heat advisory is in effect until 8 p.m.

Click here to use the NWS interactive map to check conditions in your area.
 

The heat index explains why temps will feel like 105 to 109 degrees

While temps in the 90s or even the low 100s are not unusual in Georgia (parts of our state reach triple digits a few days per year), extreme and excessive heat can occur when high temperatures combine with high humidity.

Even if the heat is not in one of these danger zones, it can be dangerous at much lower temperatures, and elderly people are particularly vulnerable.

This is explained in the heat index, when one temperature "feels like" a higher number because of humidity's effects on the human body.

Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.

Calculate your region's heat index here.

The NWS suggests taking precautions to avoid these illnesses.
 

What you can do to stay safe

  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Stay in an air-conditioned room.
  • Stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
  • Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
  • Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside.
  • When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
  • Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
  • Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible.
  • To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.

 

Watch for the first signs of mild heat exhaustion:

  • headaches
  • dizziness
  • lethargy
  • feeling unwell in general

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location, especially before heatstroke occurs.

 

Symptoms of heatstroke include:

  • Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
  • Loss of consciousness (coma)
  • Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
  • Seizures
  • Very high body temperature

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Call 911.

 

Atlanta's weekend forecast

Friday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 105. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Saturday: A 10% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 105. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday night: A 10% chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. North wind around 5 mph.

Sunday: A 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Sunny, with a high near 95. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Sunday night: A 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Find forecasts for your area here.

Tags: Atlanta  Georgia  weather  Storms  climate  heat