Heat Advisory, Air Quality Alert Issued For Metro Atlanta

ATLANTA, GA — Metro Atlanta is under both a code orange air quality alert and a heat advisory Friday, according to the National Weather Service's Peachtree City office.

The heat advisory took effect at noon and will end at 8 p.m.

Code Orange

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources issued the air quality alert, deeming the air unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Orange denotes an air quality index of between 101-150 while an index of above 150 is considered code red, with health effects spreading to members of the general public. Friday's AQI was a 104.

Air quality alerts are triggered by a number of factors, including the detection of fine-particle pollution — known as “PM 2.5” — which can irritate the lungs.

According to the national government-operated monitoring platform AirNow, PM 2.5 was moderate early Friday morning.

"Under code orange conditions, the outdoor air quality is likely to be unhealthy for some people. Children, people who are sensitive to ozone and people with heart or lung disease should limit prolonged outdoor exertion during the late afternoon or early evening when ozone concentrations are highest," the weather service said.

Hot Temperatures

Heat index values between 105 and 109 are expected Friday, according to the weather service.

"Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur," weather officials said in the advisory.

A high of 95 degrees is predicted with a low of 73 degrees predicted at nightfall.

Saturday's temperatures are supposed to get even hotter, with a high of 97 degrees anticipated.

Residents are asked to stay hydrated, remain in air-conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun and check on neighbors and relatives. Children and pets should not be left unattended in vehicles, the weather service said. Weather officials advise rescheduling strenuous activities to the early morning or evening.

"Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911," weather officials said in the alert.