Residents across northwest Georgia and the Tennessee Valley should prepare for dangerous heat and the possibility of isolated severe thunderstorms as the Independence Day weekend begins.
Friday’s forecast calls for afternoon highs between 95 and 100 degrees, with heat index values ranging from 100 to 110 degrees due to high humidity. Forecasters urge residents to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, and check on family members, neighbors and pets to ensure they remain safe in the extreme heat.
A marginal, Level 1 out of 5, risk for severe thunderstorms is also in place Friday afternoon and evening. While widespread severe weather is not expected, isolated storms could produce damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall and frequent lightning.
Hot and humid conditions are expected to continue on Independence Day, with temperatures climbing into the upper 90s to near 100 degrees. Heat index values could once again reach between 105 and 110 degrees. A few scattered showers or thunderstorms are possible during the afternoon and evening, but much of the day is expected to remain partly sunny.
Rain chances are expected to increase early next week as a more active weather pattern develops. Although humidity will remain high, additional cloud cover and more frequent showers and thunderstorms should help keep daytime highs in the lower 90s.