The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Dade County and much of Northwest Georgia, warning of dangerously high temperatures and humidity levels through 8:00 p.m. Thursday.
The advisory, issued Wednesday afternoon, affects several counties including Dade, Walker, Catoosa, Whitfield, Murray, Chattooga, Gordon, Floyd, Bartow, and Polk, and includes cities such as Trenton, LaFayette, Dalton, Calhoun, and Rome.
Heat index values are expected to reach up to 107 degrees, creating hazardous conditions for those spending extended time outdoors. Forecasters say that overnight lows will offer little relief, with temperatures and humidity expected to climb rapidly again Thursday morning.
Officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. These include:
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Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids,
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Remaining indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible,
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Avoiding direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours,
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Checking on elderly neighbors and relatives, and
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Never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles, even for a short time.
The heat advisory comes as the region experiences its first major heat wave of the summer. Local emergency services are on alert, and residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and exercise caution during outdoor activities.