WEATHER-TRAFFIC UPDATE: Smog is back in time for GSU graduation

Tomorrow:  Mostly sunny. High: 83

» For a detailed forecast, visit The Atlanta Journal-Constitution weather page.

Warm weather could be accompanied by smog and a few light showers Wednesday.

The forecast high is 83 degrees with a morning low of 61, but Channel 2 Action News Chief meteorologist Glenn Burns said the air quality will hit Code Orange levels in the late morning until the early afternoon.

Code Orange means it’s unhealthy for sensitive groups such as young children and the elderly. They are advised to avoid prolonged outdoor activities during this time.

Currently, it’s 68 degrees and dry in Atlanta. But Burns said a few rain showers should have started in northeast Georgia around 9 p.m.

Drivers should expect heavy traffic tonight on I-575 northbound near the Bells Ferry Road exit due to the exit ramp closing at 10 p.m. for construction. It’ll remain closed until 5 a.m. Wednesday.

Wednesday's evening commute could be impacted near Georgia State's stadium starting at 5 p.m. for the school's first two commencement ceremonies. More graduations are slated for Thursday and Friday at the same time.

The high Tuesday reached 82 degrees in Atlanta, and a few isolated patches of rain and small, pea-sized hail hit the metro area around 4 p.m.

Tuesday's pollen count was 401 particles per cubic meter of air. While that number is in the high range, it doesn't come close to the season high of 5,354.

Between the smog alert and high pollen counts, Burns said the metro area is in desperate need of rain. However, there’s only a 10 percent chance of rain Wednesday. No severe storms are expected.

The rain won't quell the heat. Highs are forecast for 85 Thursday and 87 Friday and weekend temperatures could reach the 90s. Projected highs are 90 Saturday and 89 Sunday.

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