Thermometers in Atlanta on Thursday read 80 degrees for the first time since October as the temperature matched the record high set in 1992.
The bright, sunny day outstripped its predicted high temperature by two degrees in midafternoon, Channel 2 Action News meteorologist Brad Nitz tweeted. With the mercury hitting 80, Atlanta saw temperatures 18 degrees above average.
The city got off to a comfortable start with morning lows in the mid-50s.
“A little cool out there, maybe a light jacket to start the day for you,” Channel 2 meteorologist Brian Monahan said early in the day. “This afternoon, though, short sleeves and shorts after work. It should be really nice later today.”
Monahan expected 11 hours of straight sunshine Thursday, with just a few fair-weather clouds in the sky.
For some perspective, highs are typically in the low 60s this time of year.
“When the kids get home from school, it’s going to be gorgeous,” Monahan predicted.
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
A string of warm and dry days this week have pushed pollen levels into the high range. On Wednesday, the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma organization recorded 107 pollen particles per cubic meter of air, which is considered to be in the low end of the high range. Counts have to reach four digits before they are considered extremely high.
Trees like juniper, elm, maple and pine were the top contributors to Wednesday’s count. Monahan expects an even higher number when Thursday’s count is released at 8 a.m.
A weather change is in store as a cold front approaches Thursday night, but it won’t bring any rain, he said. After a mild evening with temperatures in the 60s, Monahan said temperatures will fall into the low 50s overnight.
“This cold front will move in, and we’re going to drop back into the low 70s for highs tomorrow,” he said. “Still nice for your Friday, just a little bit cooler.”
Sunshine and a high of 72 are in Friday’s forecast. The warming trend kicks back up again for the weekend, and temperatures are expected to reach 76 Saturday and 80 Sunday, which would break the record of 79 degrees set on March 6, 1974.
Rain does not return to the forecast until early next week, according to Channel 2.
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
Credit: Channel 2 Action News
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