Residents across Northwest Georgia should prepare for a continued stretch of summer heat as the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center indicates a strong likelihood of above-normal temperatures through at least August 11.

The latest 6-10 day and 8-14 day outlooks place Georgia, including the northwest portion of the state, in an area favored to experience warmer-than-average temperatures. While the outlook does not predict exact daily high temperatures, it indicates that temperatures are more likely than not to average above normal for this time of year.

For communities such as Summerville, Trion, Menlo, Lyerly, Rome, LaFayette and surrounding areas, that means the familiar August pattern of afternoon highs in the upper 80s to lower 90s is likely to continue, with occasional days climbing into the mid-90s. Combined with Georgia’s summertime humidity, heat index values could frequently exceed 100 degrees during the afternoon hours.

The Climate Prediction Center’s outlooks are based on large-scale atmospheric patterns rather than individual daily forecasts. Forecasters say a persistent upper-level ridge of high pressure is expected to dominate much of the eastern United States, increasing the chances for warmer-than-normal conditions across the Southeast.

The outlook does not mean every day will be sunny or that afternoon thunderstorms will disappear. Typical summertime showers and thunderstorms remain possible, especially during the late afternoon and evening, but any cooling they provide is expected to be brief before temperatures rebound.

With the prolonged heat expected to continue, residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and check on elderly neighbors and those without adequate air conditioning. Pet owners should also ensure animals have plenty of fresh water and shade.

August is traditionally one of the hottest months of the year in Northwest Georgia, and the Climate Prediction Center’s latest outlook suggests that trend is likely to continue through at least the second week of the month.