Stay hydrated: Heat ramping up across metro Atlanta this week

Here we go again, Atlanta. That damp Southern heat is ramping up and could make it feel like 100 degrees or more this week.

Big picture: High temperatures are projected in the mid-90s for the first half of the week before tapering into the upper 80s as we approach the weekend, but thunderstorms that are expected to dial down the temps might dampen a few outdoor plans.

The 90-degree highs might sound manageable, but increased humidity is expected to push the heat index, a measure of how hot it actually feels, into the triple-digit range and could reach dangerous levels Tuesday, the National Weather Service warns.

On Monday, “feels like” highs are expected to reach about 100 degrees. But on Tuesday, “with richer moisture present,” the heat index could climb to the 105-degree threshold for a heat advisory in some areas, Weather Service meteorologists say.

A few pockets of the region, primarily south of Atlanta, could even see heat index values exceed 105 degrees, forecasters caution.

Advisories are issued when the heat and humidity are that high because the body can’t cool itself efficiently. Perspiration doesn’t easily evaporate in high humidity, and heatstroke sets in when your body temperature exceeds 103 degrees, which can be deadly. So if you’re spending any time outdoors under such an advisory, be sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade.

By Thursday, heat index values should drop below the 100 degree mark thanks to thunderstorms that are expected in the afternoon. The marginally cooler trend should stick with us through the weekend along with at least a 30% chance of rain on both Saturday and Sunday.