The same scorching heat that has enveloped much of the Midwest and Deep South is expected to encroach on North Georgia by Tuesday afternoon.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a heat advisory for the Gainesville area and other northern parts of the state starting at noon Tuesday, August 13, extending until 8 p.m.
South and central Georgia have suffered under extreme heat since the weekend.
The counties in the region that are under Tuesday's advisory are Banks, Barrow, Dawson, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson counties. Other counties in east and northwest Georgia will also be impacted.
NWS forecasters said the heat index in Gainesville could reach at least 100 degrees, while the heat index in Athens could hit 104. In Columbus, the heat index is predicted to reach 108 degrees Tuesday.
AccessWDUN meteorologist John Wetherbee said higher chances for rain on Wednesday afternoon should help break the heat somewhat.
According to the NWS, a heat advisory means that a period of dangerous heat is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity create heat index readings above 100 degrees and very warm overnight temperatures. Anyone who works outdoors is advised to drink plenty of fluids and stay out of direct sunshine. The elderly, the very young and people with heart conditions are most at risk in extreme heat.
