Dangerous summer heat will remain the main weather concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through Monday, with heat index values climbing above 100 degrees and the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms developing across far North Georgia Monday afternoon and evening.

Sunday will be sunny and hot, with an afternoon high near 97 degrees. The heat index could reach around 102, making it feel several degrees hotter than the actual temperature. Winds will remain light, becoming westerly around 5 mph. Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low near 76.

The National Weather Service says oppressive heat will continue into early next week, with a Heat Advisory remaining in effect through Monday evening. Forecasters indicate additional heat-related advisories or warnings may be needed as the prolonged stretch of extreme temperatures continues.

Monday could be even hotter. The forecast calls for a high near 98 degrees, while the heat index could climb as high as 106 degrees. Some locations across the region could approach or reach 100 degrees for an actual air temperature.

A weather disturbance and frontal boundary approaching the region will also increase thunderstorm chances late Monday. There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m.

Forecasters say a few storms across far North Georgia could become strong to severe Monday afternoon and evening. The primary concern will be damaging wind gusts of up to 60 mph. Northern Georgia is included in a Marginal Risk, Level 1 of 5, for severe weather, while the Slight Risk, Level 2 of 5, reaches into portions of the far northern counties.

Any thunderstorms that develop could also produce frequent lightning, gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall.

Temperatures remain well above normal through much of the coming week. Tuesday will be sunny with a high near 94, followed by mostly clear conditions Tuesday night and a low near 72. Wednesday will be sunny with a high near 95.

Another chance of afternoon thunderstorms returns Thursday, with a 30 percent chance after 2 p.m. and a high near 95. Rain and thunderstorm chances increase to around 40 percent Friday as a change in the weather pattern begins to bring slightly cooler temperatures.

By Saturday, the high is forecast to be closer to 90 degrees, although scattered showers and thunderstorms will remain possible.

Anyone spending time outdoors Sunday or Monday should take the prolonged heat seriously. Drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.