ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — North Georgia is experiencing the hottest stretch of the season so far, with dangerous heat index values climbing into the mid to upper 90s through Saturday. Relief is on the way, but it is still a few days away.

Tonight: Still sweltering

Don’t expect much cooling tonight. Temperatures will only drop into the low to mid 70s as humid conditions continue. If you’re heading out after work, stay hydrated and take breaks in air conditioning.

Friday: The heat intensifies

Friday will be the second hottest day of this stretch. Afternoon highs will climb into the low 90s, but the real story is the heat index — expect widespread values between 95 and 105 degrees.

Storm threat Friday evening: A few strong to isolated severe thunderstorms are possible across far North Georgia Friday afternoon and evening as a cold front approaches from the northwest. The main threat would be damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, small hail, and heavy downpours. Coverage should remain scattered, and storms will gradually weaken and move out after sunset.

Saturday: Peak heat

Saturday will be the hottest day of this stretch. Highs will reach the low to mid 90s with heat index values peaking in the upper 90s to low 100s. This is when the heat will be most intense and dangerous for outdoor activities.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop during the afternoon and evening as high pressure finally begins to weaken. A few of these storms could become strong to severe with damaging winds, frequent lightning, small hail, and heavy rain.

Sunday and beyond: Pattern change

The big weather story shifts Sunday as a potent weather system dives into the Southeast. High pressure breaks down, and a front moves in with significantly more moisture flowing in from the Gulf.

Expect numerous to widespread showers and storms from Sunday through at least Tuesday. This is a much wetter pattern, and while temperatures will drop due to increased cloud cover, the rain chances will be much higher than what we’ve seen this week.

Flash flood concerns: With moisture values expected to surge to around 2 inches in the atmosphere, any afternoon storms could produce heavy rain. If stronger weather systems move through as some forecasts suggest, flash flood risk could increase. This is something to monitor closely as we head into the weekend.