Atlanta is starting Wednesday under clear skies and temperatures near 79 degrees, but the calm morning will give way to a punishing afternoon. The forecast calls for sunshine, a high near 97 and heat index values reaching about 101, making this the hottest day of the near-term stretch.
The National Weather Service says high pressure will keep rain mostly suppressed through midweek, while a Heat Advisory covers far northwest Georgia from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Heat indexes in the advisory area could reach 107 degrees, and the broader region should take the afternoon heat seriously.
Afternoon Heat Builds Quickly
Temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 80s by late morning and the mid-90s during the afternoon. Winds will stay light, generally around 5 mph, shifting from northerly to easterly and offering little relief from the sun.
Anyone spending extended time outdoors should take frequent breaks, drink water and avoid the hottest part of the afternoon when possible. Children, older adults, outdoor workers and pets can be especially vulnerable during a hot, humid day.
Mostly Dry Weather Holds Through Friday
Thursday will remain sunny and hot, with a high near 96 and heat index values again reaching around 101. Friday stays mostly sunny with a high near 95, while overnight lows hover in the mid-70s.
That is a sharper escalation from Tuesday's 95-degree heat, which Hoodline previously reported as the start of Atlanta's early-September hot spell. The latest outlook keeps the heat in place but brings a more noticeable storm threat for the weekend.
Storm Chances Rise For The Weekend
Saturday remains mostly sunny with a high near 96, followed by a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Sunday brings the best chance of rain so far, with a 50% chance of afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms and a high near 94.
Labor Day should be somewhat cooler, though still warm, with a high near 90 and a 40% chance of afternoon storms. Another 90-degree day is expected Tuesday, September 8, with only a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m.
The full forecast from the National Weather Service in Peachtree City shows the pattern easing only gradually: intense heat through Friday, increasing storm chances over the weekend and slightly cooler temperatures for the holiday.
