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A heat advisory was in effect throughout the day in Troup County and surrounding counties on Friday, and such conditions are expected to continue throughout the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

An excessive heat watch has been issued for parts of central Georgia for Saturday with forecasted heat index values up to 110 degrees by the afternoon.

Adam Baker, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, said Troup County is just north of an excessive heat watch that has the potential to fester into a heat warning.

“That basically means that areas within [the heat watch] would have afternoon heat close to 110 degrees, but [Troup County] looks a bit lower than that for Saturday, so I think there’s a good chance you’re just going to be in another heat advisory and not an excessive heat warning,” Baker said. “Your afternoon heat indices are right around 104 degrees [Friday] and Saturday looks like it’ll be a bit higher by a degree or two. Sunday may be a little bit cooler.”

Such high temperatures can leave residents susceptible to heat stroke and heat exhaustion, Baker said. He suggested that residents steer clear of direct sunlight, drink plenty of fluids, wear light clothing and retreat to cool areas as often as possible. 

“If there’s any outdoor plans, just limit your time in the heat, that’s for sure,” Baker added. “Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.” 

According to the Center for Disease Control and prevention, heat exhaustion is the precursor to heatstroke and is a direct result of the body overheating and can be identified by heavy sweating, rapid pulse, dizziness, fatigue, cool, moist skin with goosebumps when in the heat, muscle cramps, nausea and headache.

Heat stroke symptoms can arrive when one’s body temperature rises to 104 degrees or higher. 

At this temperature, the body’s organs can become damaged, leading to serious complications or death.

Isolated thunderstorms are expected to return to Central Georgia on Saturday. By Sunday isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms will become more widespread. This trend will continue into early next week, NWS reports. Any storms could become strong with heavy rain, gusty winds and frequent lightning.