Residents in Northwest Georgia should prepare for heavy thunderstorms and very high heat index values today and into the evening. Forecasters predict severe weather with possible damaging winds and flash flooding during the storms, which could occur this afternoon and evening. A hot and humid environment is expected, with heat index values reaching between 98 and 104 degrees.

Today’s weather forecast includes a high of 87 degrees with a likelihood of showers and thunderstorms mainly between 2 PM and 4 PM, and a 60 percent chance of precipitation. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 70 degrees and a 30 percent chance of rain. The stormy weather will continue into Friday, with a 50 percent chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon and a high of 89 degrees.

For the weekend and early next week, more afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected, but the heat will intensify, with “feels like” temperatures potentially reaching 100 to 108 degrees. Residents are advised to seek shelter during storms, stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and check on vulnerable neighbors.