ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — North Georgia is heading into a summery through the weekend with heat index values climbing into the mid to upper 90s. More widespread rain chances return by early next week.

Tonight Through Thursday: Hot and Humid

Expect warm and muggy conditions tonight with lows only dropping to the low 70s — barely any relief from the daytime heat. Thursday will bring another hot day with highs in the low 90s, but the real story is the heat index. With dewpoints in the 70s, afternoon heat index values will climb into the mid to upper 90s — hot enough to make outdoor activities feel uncomfortable and be dangerous if you don’t stay hydrated.

Isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible each afternoon, but coverage will be limited. If a storm does develop near you, watch for frequent lightning and heavy rainfall before it quickly moves out.

Friday and Saturday: Peak Heat Continues

The hot pattern continues through the weekend with typical summer weather — hot, humid, and a daily chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Highs will remain in the low to mid 90s, with heat index values around 95-100 degrees across North Georgia.

While widespread severe weather isn’t expected, a strong storm or two each day could produce heavy rain, frequent lightning, and gusty winds.

Sunday into Next Week: Rain Chances, First Alert Weather Days Monday and Tuesday

Relief from the heat is on the way, but it comes with an inconvenience — rain. A potent system will dive across the Midwest on Sunday, sending a front into the Southeast. We’ll see scattered showers and storms to end the weekend.

Monday and Tuesday will bring numerous to widespread showers and thunderstorms — a much wetter pattern than what we’ve seen this week. Moisture surging in off the Gulf will create atmospheric conditions favorable for heavy rainfall, which means flash flood concerns will be possible with any afternoon and evening storms. This is why Monday and Tuesday are First Alert Weather Days.

Depending on the exact timing and strength of any fronts, severe weather could also become a threat. The good news: cloud cover will likely keep temperatures cooler than this week.