Heat Advisory, Air Quality Alert For Metro Atlanta

GEORGIA — The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory though Friday for much of north Georgia due to heat index values reaching 106 degrees.

The heat advisory is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. on Thursday, and then returns from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, throughout much of north and central Georgia. The National Weather Service said that hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.

The National Weather Service says to:

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Stay in an air-conditioned room.
• Stay out of the sun.
• Check up on relatives and neighbors.
• Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
• Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside.
• When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible.
• To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. The National Weather Service said heat stroke is an emergency, and anyone experiencing it or with some who is, should call 911.

Hot and humid conditions with heat index values of 100-110 degrees are likely Saturday and Sunday.

Isolated thunderstorms will return to the area Saturday afternoon with a steady increase through Tuesday. Any storm could become strong with heavy rain, gusty winds and frequent lightning.

Additionally, a code orange air quality alert is in effect for metro Atlanta on Thursday.

Under code orange conditions, the outdoor air quality is likely to be unhealthy for some people. Children, people who are sensitive to ozone, and people with heart or lung disease should limit
prolonged outdoor exertion during the late afternoon or early evening when ozone concentrations are highest.

For additional information on the air quality index, visit the Air Now website.