GA Weather: July 4th Calls For Thunderstorms, High Heat

GEORGIA — Strong thunderstorms and blazing heat are expected this Fourth of July in Atlanta.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for portions of North and Central Georgia.

Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening. While severe storms are not expected at this time, a few strong storms are possible producing gusty winds, small hail, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rain, the NWS said.

Then on the July 4th holiday, the NWS said scattered to numerous thunderstorms are expected Thursday and Friday afternoon and evenings, with scattered thunderstorms expected Friday through Tuesday. Some strong storms are possible and isolated severe storms cannot be ruled out, the NWS said.

When it isn't threatening to rain, heat indices could approach advisory levels (105 degrees) across portions of the area, particularly central Georgia and eastern north Georgia on July 4th, the NWS said.

Weather Forecast

Wednesday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Heat index values as high as 97. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night
A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Independence Day
A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Heat index values as high as 97. Northwest wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Thursday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. West wind around 5 mph becoming east after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Friday
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Friday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 9 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

AJC Peachtree Road Race

For any runners participating in the 50th AJC Peachtree Road Race the morning of July 4th, the Atlanta Track Club, which puts on the event, said the forecast for the race calls for extreme heat and humidity. In consultation with the race medical directors, Atlanta Track Club expects to start the race under YELLOW FLAG conditions. Participants are asked to slow down and pay close attention to symptoms of dehydration and heat exhaustion. As the heat and humidity rise throughout the morning, participants should expect to see the alert level moved to a RED FLAG. ATC advises paying attention to the signage and instructions at each hydration station during the race. As you prepare for tomorrow's race, consider the following:

• Tomorrow will not be a day to attempt a personal best. Please adjust your goal pace accordingly and enjoy the experience.
• For those who have not adequately trained in heat in humidity or have a preexisting condition, it is recommended you reconsider participating in this event. Do not underestimate the danger of these conditions. If you do decide to participate, it is highly recommended that you walk instead of run and stop at hydration and misting stations along the course.