Residents across Northwest Georgia can expect a hot and largely dry Independence Day, with temperatures soaring into the low to mid-90s. The presence of a fairly dry air mass aloft is contributing to conditions that are set to persist through the holiday weekend. Coupled with the ambient humidity, heat index values are projected to reach as high as 97 degrees, potentially nearing lower triple digits in some localized areas. A north wind of approximately 5 mph is expected to shift to an east wind in the afternoon. Authorities and weather officials urge those spending time outdoors today to prioritize hydration and plan frequent breaks in shaded areas to mitigate the risk of heat-related illness. Tonight, conditions are expected to remain mostly clear, with a comfortable low around 71 degrees and a light northeast wind. The heat trend is set to continue through the weekend. Saturday will see sunny skies and a high near 93 degrees, with calm winds becoming eastbound around 5 mph in the afternoon. Saturday night will be mostly clear, with a low around 70 degrees and continued calm winds. Sunday is also forecast to be sunny with a high near 93 degrees. Winds will remain calm, becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Sunday night will be mostly clear, with a low around 71 degrees. Looking ahead to Monday, the forecast indicates another hot day with a high near 94 degrees. There is a slight, 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 2:00 PM, providing the first potential for precipitation in several days. With sustained high temperatures on tap, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant about heat safety throughout the long holiday weekend.