Heat Advisory: Temps remain dangerously high on Wednesday in North Georgia

Much of Georgia remains under a Heat Advisory through 8 p.m. Wednesday, with temperatures and humidity combining to create dangerous conditions for residents across the state.

Daytime highs are expected to climb into the mid to upper 90s, but humidity will push the "feels like" temperatures to between 100 and 107 degrees.

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Heat Advisory for Georgia

What they're saying:

The advisory, which covers much of Georgia, is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Heat index values during the afternoon hours could again climb between 105 and 109 degrees.

"By midnight, we’re only going to be in the mid-80s," Chandley said. "And we’ll make our way into probably the mid to upper 70s here in town by early tomorrow morning. The mountains might get into the upper 60s — the only cool spot."

Scattered thunderstorms are expected to return by mid-afternoon Wednesday and could continue into the evening and through the weekend. Some storms may turn severe, bringing damaging winds, frequent lightning, and hail.

"We’re not expecting tornadoes," Chandley said. "But we are going to see some pretty nasty downburst or microburst winds with some of these storms."

The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of the Atlanta metro under a Level 2 (slight) risk for severe weather on Wednesday.

Temperatures will remain high throughout the week. Highs are forecast to hover in the low 90s through early next week, accompanied by elevated humidity and periodic afternoon storms — a typical summer pattern.

Hot temperatures this week

By the numbers:

Metro Atlanta:

  • Wednesday: High of 99 with a heat index up to 105. Slight chance of afternoon storms.
  • Thursday–Sunday: Highs in the low 90s. Daily chances of afternoon thunderstorms range from 40% to 60%.

North Georgia Mountains:

  • Wednesday: High near 94. Storm chances increase through the day.
  • Late Week: Highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. Thunderstorms likely each afternoon.

Northwest Georgia:

  • Wednesday: Heat index values up to 109. Storm chances increase after 3 p.m.
  • Thursday–Sunday: Daily highs in the low to mid-90s with strong chances of storms each afternoon.

Forecasters say the combination of intense heat and pop-up storms will define Georgia’s weather for the foreseeable future.

How to beat the heat

What you can do:

Authorities urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors and relatives. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments during outdoor work.

Heat Safety Tips for People:

  • Limit time outdoors during peak afternoon heat.
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and use sunscreen.
  • Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors with air conditioning.
  • Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a minute.

RELATED: Tips to avoid heat-related illnesses

Keep Pets Safe in the Heat:

  • Walk pets early in the morning or after sunset to avoid hot pavement.
  • Make sure they have access to fresh water and shade throughout the day.
  • Watch for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy.
  • Avoid leaving pets outside for long periods, especially in direct sun.

Public Places with Air Conditioning

  • Libraries – Quiet, free, and air-conditioned with seating and water fountains.
  • Shopping malls – Large, cool areas where you can walk and rest.
  • Movie theaters – A few hours of cool air and entertainment (discount matinees help).
  • Community recreation centers or gyms – Some offer free access during heat waves.
  • Museums – Often climate-controlled and may have free or low-cost admission days.
  • Places of worship – Many churches, mosques, and synagogues welcome people inside during extreme weather.

Home Cooling Hacks

  • Close blinds/curtains during the day to block sunlight and heat.
  • Use fans strategically, placing a bowl of ice in front of them for a DIY air conditioner.
  • Sleep low – heat rises, so stay on lower floors or even the floor itself.
  • Take cool showers or baths to quickly lower body temperature.
  • Limit appliance use (ovens, dryers, etc.) that add indoor heat.
  • Unplug electronics that generate heat when not in use.

Outdoor Tips

  • Seek shade in parks or wooded areas; even a slight breeze helps.
  • Use splash pads or public fountains where allowed.
  • Wear light, loose clothing and bring a hat or umbrella for shade.
  • Mist yourself with water from a spray bottle and use cooling towels.

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