ATLANTA – With a prolonged Heat Advisory affecting several counties in the metro Atlanta area until 8 p.m. Monday, the National Weather Service anticipates elevated heat indexes throughout the week, reaching “Red Level” status daily.
Clayton County Public Schools Adjustments
Clayton County Public Schools have taken proactive measures, canceling all district-sanctioned outdoor activities from July 8 to 12 due to anticipated high temperatures and intermittent showers and thunderstorms. During this period, school officials are instructed to follow established protocols for Red Level conditions. Parents and guardians are advised to plan accordingly, ensuring children are appropriately dressed, hydrated, and have access to water.
Weather Outlook
According to FOX 5 meteorologist Alex Forbes, today’s high temperatures will feel like 106 degrees Fahrenheit, with a possibility of fewer showers and storms compared to Sunday. Highs are expected to reach 94 on Tuesday, 93 on both Wednesday and Thursday, 94 on Friday, 95 on Saturday, and 96 on Sunday, with daily chances of precipitation.
Cooling Centers in Operation
In response to the heatwave, several cooling centers have been activated across the metro area:
- City of Atlanta: Selena Butler Park and Recreation Center, located at 98 William Holmes Borders Drive SE, will operate as a cooling center from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, providing water to residents.
- DeKalb County: Recreation centers and libraries are available during regular business hours as cooling centers, with accessible water fountains. Additionally, the DeKalb County Department of Human Services at 30 Warren Street, Atlanta, will serve as a cooling center from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
Safety Tips for Extreme Heat
To stay safe during periods of extreme heat:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress in lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30 sunscreen and reapply regularly.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day and take breaks in the shade when outside.
- Utilize Cooling Methods: Use fans, air conditioning, cool showers, and damp cloths to lower body temperature.
- Monitor Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and those with medical conditions.
Keeping Pets Safe
Ensure pets have access to water, limit outdoor activities, never leave them in a hot car, and provide shaded areas.
Cooling Homes Without AC
Strategies include using fans strategically, blocking sunlight, opening windows at night, optimizing ventilation, using light-colored linens, and minimizing heat-generating activities.
Local Cooling Activities
Explore indoor venues like the Georgia Aquarium, Piedmont Park Pool, and the High Museum of Art to beat the heat.
For ongoing updates and additional safety tips, residents are encouraged to monitor local weather reports and community announcements.