Dangerous heat will remain the biggest weather concern across Northwest Georgia today, but forecasters are also watching the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms to move into North Georgia later Monday evening.

A Heat Advisory remains in effect through Monday evening, with afternoon temperatures expected to climb into the upper 90s. The local forecast calls for a high near 97 degrees, while the heat index could reach around 105 degrees. Some locations across the region could experience even higher apparent temperatures.

The National Weather Service says several consecutive days of intense heat combined with limited cooling overnight are increasing the risk of heat-related illness. Anyone spending extended periods outdoors should take frequent breaks, drink plenty of water and limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.

Strong Storms Possible Later Monday

There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon, mainly after 3 p.m., but a more organized round of storms could approach North Georgia during the evening and early overnight hours.

Forecasters say atmospheric conditions could support storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, along with frequent lightning and heavy rainfall.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of far North Georgia under a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms, with a Marginal Risk extending farther south.

Exactly how far south the stronger storms survive remains uncertain. The storms are expected to weaken as they encounter somewhat drier and less unstable air, particularly after sunset.

Rain and thunderstorm chances increase to 40 percent tonight, mainly before midnight. The overnight low will be around 74.

Slight Relief Tuesday

Tuesday should bring at least some improvement following the passage of a frontal boundary.

Skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 93 degrees. Lower humidity should make conditions somewhat less oppressive, although it will remain hot.

Tuesday night will be mostly clear with temperatures dropping to around 69 degrees, providing better overnight relief than the region has experienced during the recent stretch of heat.

Heat Continues Through The Week

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 96, followed by another mostly clear night with a low around 72.

Thursday will also reach around 96 degrees, with only a 20 percent chance of an afternoon shower or thunderstorm.

Thunderstorm chances begin increasing again Friday and into the weekend. Friday’s high will be near 93 with a 30 percent chance of afternoon storms.

Saturday will bring a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with a high near 91, while Sunday currently looks sunny with a high around 91.

Despite the approaching front and somewhat lower temperatures, forecasters expect highs to remain in the 90s through the period. Heat index readings could continue reaching 100 to 105 degrees during portions of the work week before conditions gradually become less oppressive.