Scorching temps prompt heat advisory before school starts next week in Atlanta

North Georgia and much of the rest of the state are in for heat index values exceeding 105 degrees and several thunderstorms Tuesday.

The National Weather Service described the expected heat as “no joke.” A heat advisory will be active from noon until 8 p.m. Tuesday, with “feels like” temperatures climbing to 109 degrees. The only area in Georgia that may not reach heat advisory criteria is the highest elevations of northeast Georgia, according to the Weather Service.

The NWS predicts Atlanta will be in the 90s between noon and 8 p.m., and the “feels like” temperatures, which factor in humidity, will be in the 100s. The city is expected to reach a high of 96 degrees by 5 p.m., at which point it will feel like 105 degrees.

As the heat begins to settle, parts of North Georgia, including areas of Atlanta, will be under a Level 1 of 5 threat for severe thunderstorms. The Weather Service predicts a line of storms will push southward Tuesday evening through the overnight hours. Some storms may produce strong wind gusts and frequent lightning.

Georgia’s northeast corner is under a Level 2 threat.

The Weather Service anticipates another heat advisory Wednesday for areas from Columbus to Macon and along the I-16 corridor. North Georgia should see drier air move in and a gradual relief from high heat.

This week is the last full week of summer break for many metro Atlanta students. Atlanta, Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb and Clayton school districts all start Aug. 3; Marietta City Schools start Aug. 4; and Gwinnett schools start Aug. 5.