WEATHER: Hot weather ahead, heat index reaching upper 100s range

Want to know how hot it is later this afternoon? Set a pan out, let it sit in the sun a while then try to fry an egg.

It just might work this afternoon in Northwest Georgia as the region is expected to hit upper triple digit heat index figures for high temperatures, with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon hour.

NWS Peachtree City is keeping a heat advisory in place for all of the region through Sunday, and it is expected to be extended as highs continue to reach upper 90s and triple digits through Monday and into Tuesday.

That head advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. on Sunday as of this posting.

The heat will persist through the coming with with highs in the mid to upper 90s expected during the dog days of summer, with clear skies reaming through until the latter half of the coming week. Chances for showers begin increasing in the forecast again heading into the upcoming Thursday and Friday forecast – for the moment.

The hazardous heat expected through the upcoming week could pose serious concerns for the elderly, young children, those who face chronic illnesses and more. Air conditioning is now to the “required” phase of the dog days of summer as highs remain up, and fans may not be adequate anymore to cool indoor spaces alone.

Officials also are asking that people take precautions to avoid strenuous activities during the afternoon hours, and wear only light-weight and light-colored clothing.

The heat of the day will slowly burn off during the overnight hours, but don’t expect lows over the coming days to get down further than the mid 70s.

Do make sure to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Also, limit time outside for pets to only what is necessary if at all possible. Ensure they have plenty of shade and have ample access to water if bringing pets indoors is not an available option.