WEATHER UPDATE | Metro Atlanta under Level 1 of 5 risk for severe storms

The storms are pushing in from the west and are projected to blow southeastward throughout the afternoon, the NWS reports. The main concern for these scattered storms is for damaging wind gusts that produce heavy rain and frequent lightning.

As for temperatures, today’s high is expected to reach 95 degrees in the city. With high humidity, it will feel more like 103 degrees. Further south, feels-like temps could reach up to 107 degrees, the NWS warns.

“It’s like the air you can wear,” Channel 2 Action News meteorologist Ashley Kramlich said. “You step outside and you are already sweating.”

Heat advisories take effect when heat index values, — the measure of how hot it really feels taking both air temperature and relative humidity into account — top 105 degrees. Under those conditions, the body cannot cool itself efficiently because perspiration doesn’t easily evaporate in high humidity. Heatstroke sets in when your body temperature exceeds 103 degrees, which can cause damage to the brain, kidneys, muscles, and even death.

To help combat the heat, the city of Atlanta has opened a cooling center at the Selena Butler Park and Recreation Center located at 98 William Holmes Borders Senior Drive. It will open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sunday.

Avoid spending time outdoors today if you can. If you must be outdoors, stay hydrated and out of the sun, and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Limit strenuous activities to the early morning or evening if you can, the NWS recommends.