Hotlanta Roasts Under Blistering Sun With Near-100 Temps Before Weekend Storms Loom

Atlanta is waking up to clear skies and temperatures around 73 degrees Tuesday morning, but the summer heat is ready to take over. The city is headed for a mostly sunny afternoon with a high near 94 and a heat index as high as 98. Rain is barely on the table today, making hydration and shade the main items on the forecast.

Sunshine Arrives With A Gusty Afternoon

The National Weather Service expects northwest winds of 5 to 15 mph Tuesday, with the breeze becoming more noticeable during the afternoon. Tuesday night should be mostly clear, with temperatures dropping to around 72 and occasional gusts reaching 20 mph. Wednesday will bring more sunshine and another hot afternoon, with a high near 96.

Thursday Looks Like The Hottest Day

Thursday is shaping up to be the peak of the heat, with a sunny high near 99 and little wind to offer relief. The weather service says heat index values could reach 105 to 109 degrees in parts of central Georgia later this week, meaning additional advisories may be needed outside the immediate Atlanta forecast area. Outdoor work and strenuous activities will be toughest during the afternoon.

Storm Chances Return Late Friday

The dry stretch begins to loosen Friday, when Atlanta faces a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Friday’s high should reach about 95, followed by a low near 74. Saturday stays mostly sunny and hot near 93, with a slight storm chance, while Sunday and Monday look mainly sunny with highs around 94.

Cooling Resources Remain Available

Atlanta News First reported that the city’s summer cooling resources include the Selena Butler Recreation Center, open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the Old Adamsville Recreation Center. The report also noted that Atlanta fire stations can provide cold water and a place to cool down when temperatures become dangerous.

Residents should drink plenty of water, take breaks in air conditioning or shade, and check on older adults, neighbors and anyone with health conditions. Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, and call 911 if someone shows signs of heat stroke such as confusion, fainting or loss of consciousness.