Brace yourself for the swelter, Atlanta! Clear skies and high temperatures are the main story this week, according to the National Weather Service. Locals can expect the mercury to soar near daily highs in the mid-90s, with today topping out around 96 degrees. Though the winds may offer slight reprieve, with north breezes hitting 5 to 10 mph and gusts potentially reaching 15 mph, hydration and shade should be on everyone's checklist.
As the sun sets, those looking for cooler evening air might be slightly disappointed. Atlanta's nighttime is holding onto the summer heat with expected lows hovering in the mid-70s. A nominal chance of rain lurks before 10 pm tonight, but with a 10 percent likelihood, it's scarcely a consideration for the drought-stricken city. Thereafter, the wind will take a turn, drifting northeast after the midnight hour.
Looking ahead to Thursday, residents can anticipate another scorcher, pegged at a high near 93, accompanied by a heat index that could edge close to 98 degrees. The day will, however, bring a slightly increased chance for afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms, set at 20 percent after 2 pm. If these brief respites of precipitation materialize, they won't be sticking around long; nightfall should see partly cloudy skies and a low around 74.
The weekend also seems poised to pander to those seeking sunshine and clear skies. Friday's forecast predicts persistent warmth with the high near 93 and a dominant northwest wind. Saturday and Sunday continue the trend, both days bringing radiant sun, highs in the low 90s, and evenings of mostly clear conditions. "Monday and Tuesday won't stray far from the pattern," according to the National Weather Service, with sunny skies and a high near 91 on tap to start the new week.
For those planning ahead or simply dreaming of cooler days, there’s a sign of precipitation on the horizon. Next Tuesday introduces a modest increase in cloud coverage and a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. So while it's mostly sunny skies and high temperatures for now, Atlanta may see a break in the pattern and an opportunity for its residents to welcome the rain.
