A dangerous heat pattern is building across most of Georgia – and it has a name.
Experts say a “heat dome” is settling over the region, pushing temperatures higher and keeping them there for days. Meterologists say that happens when a strong high-pressure system traps hot air like a lid.
Georgia News Network reports that forecasters tell WALB since heat rises, that trapped air continues to heat up, often pushing temperatures into the triple digits with little overnight relief.
Officials say to drink plenty of water throughout the day, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat, never leave children or pets in vehicles, check on elderly neighbors and relatives, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and stay in the shade when possible.
Meanwhile, the weather service has issued a Heat Advisory for today (Wednesday) which includes Jackson, Barrow, Gwinnett and Forsyth counties. The rest of northeast Georgia, including Hall County, is not included. But, nevertheless, heat indexes could reach the triple-digits in some places, Hall County among them.