The eastern United States is set to experience a period of rising temperatures this week, driven by a strengthening upper-level ridge. Residents can expect a gradual warming trend continuing through Monday, with daily high temperatures increasing by a degree or two. The high-pressure system will also limit rainfall, ensuring mostly dry conditions for the region today and Monday. Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies with a high near 92 degrees. The heat index, a measure of how the temperature feels to the human body, could reach as high as 99 degrees. Tonight will be mostly clear with a low around 71 degrees. Monday will bring more sunshine and a high near 94 degrees, with the heat index potentially reaching 98 degrees. While today and Monday are expected to be warm, a significant heat wave is on the horizon. Beginning Tuesday and continuing through Friday, widespread heat indices between 100 and 108 degrees are forecast. This prolonged period of extreme heat could pose risks to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, young children, and individuals without access to air conditioning. Residents are urged to take precautions during the peak heating hours of the afternoon and evening to avoid heat-related illnesses. Looking ahead, isolated to scattered thunderstorms may return to Northwest Georgia by the end of the workweek, offering a potential respite from the heat. However, for the majority of the region, the focus remains on preparing for and managing the upcoming heat wave