Code Orange in Atlanta: Sunshine Now, Storms Roar Back Midweek

Atlanta is starting Monday under clear skies, with sunshine, light winds and a high near 92 degrees on tap. The dry spell will hold through Tuesday, giving the metro area a brief break before storm chances climb later in the week.

The National Weather Service in Peachtree City expects northwest winds of up to 10 mph Monday, with temperatures falling to around 68 degrees Monday night. Tuesday should be another sunny day, with a high near 93 and no rain expected, according to the National Weather Service.

Code Orange Air Alert Covers Monday

A Code Orange air quality alert is in effect for Atlanta through 6 p.m. Monday. Children, people who are sensitive to ozone and residents with heart or lung conditions should limit prolonged outdoor exertion during the late afternoon and early evening, when ozone levels are expected to be highest.

For everyone else, the lower humidity and mostly sunny skies should make Monday feel more manageable than Atlanta’s stickier summer days. Still, a high in the low 90s calls for water, shade and a little restraint during the hottest part of the afternoon.

Storm Chances Build Wednesday And Thursday

Wednesday starts mostly sunny with a high near 93, but a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives after 2 p.m. Storm chances rise sharply Thursday, when showers could begin before 8 a.m. and thunderstorms become likely through the day, with a 70% chance of rain and a high near 89.

The National Weather Service says the late-week pattern could bring locally heavy rainfall as more moisture moves into North Georgia. Friday remains partly sunny with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms and a high near 89.

Weekend Plans Get A Small Storm Asterisk

Saturday should be mostly sunny and near 90 degrees, but a 30% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor plans. Sunday looks similar, with a high near 91 and another chance of storms after 2 p.m.

In short: Monday and Tuesday are the best bets for dry errands, commutes and outdoor plans. Keep an eye on the sky from Wednesday onward, especially Thursday, when the odds of getting caught in a downpour are much higher.