Dangerous heat expected in Georgia the new few days. Here's what to know

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The National Weather Service of Atlanta display of the "hottest temperatures of the year incoming" in Atlanta.

Credit: NWS Atlanta

The National Weather Service of Atlanta reports dangerous heat in Georgia for early next week, Sunday to Tuesday, with the most excessive heat and humidity of year expected.

NWS Atlanta predicts that Georgia cities including Atlanta, Athens, Columbus, Macon and Rome could reach a heat index as high as 112 degrees Fahrenheit in those days.

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Forecast heat index values for Georgia cities early next week.

Credit: NWS Atlanta

Earlier this week, the NWS Atlanta confirmed that Wednesday, July 23, was the highest peaks for "dogs days of summer," a phrase used to describe hot and humid summer days usually falling between July 3 through Aug. 11.

• RELATED: Georgia's in the 'Dog Days of Summer.' What to know about the weather

The NWS is advising everyone to take precaution to protect yourselves, family and pets.

Health risks and how to act 

GPB's Sofi Gratas reported on the heat advisory in South Georgia and the propers actions to take during days of high heat and humidity.

Georgia’s high humidity makes hot days even more dangerous.

That spells trouble for the large number of people working or spending time outside, Kristin Patten, public information officer with the South Health District in Valdosta, said.

“Just make sure that you're drinking plenty of water — at least two to four cups of water every hour,” she said.  

People without air conditioning should take cold showers or baths, the National Weather Service said. Blowing fans may not be enough to keep the body cool.  

Meghan Herendeen with the Southwest Health District in Albany said heat exhaustion symptoms include headache, nausea and dizziness. The biggest concern with heat exhaustion is bringing down internal body temperature, care that can be started at home. 

Anything worse should be considered an emergency.  

“You could still have those symptoms with a heat stroke, but you'll also have the more concerning symptoms as well,” Herendeen said.  

Confusion, seizures and slurred speech are possible signs of heat stroke.  

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Environmental Public Health Tracking Network, there were 76 deaths from heat and heat-related illness between 2018 and 2022 in Georgia.

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