It’s The Dog Days of Summer in Georgia: What Does That Mean?

The National Weather Service of Atlanta confirmed that Wednesday, July 23, was the highest peak for “dogs days of summer,” a phrase used to describe hot and humid summer days usually falling between July 3 through Aug. 11.

The phrase can be tracked back to the Roman Empire era, occurring 20 days prior to and 20 days after the star Sirius rises and falls in alignment with the sun.

According to NWS Atlanta, the name Sirius comes from the Ancient Greek word for “scorching” or “glowing.” It is known as the “Dog Star” because it is the brightest star in the Canis Major (Large Dog) constellation.

It is also the brightest star visible from Earth (except for the sun) from both hemispheres.

Sirius peaks in size and visibility behind the sun on July 23, with the “dog days” said to fall in that time of 20 days prior and after.

“The Romans and Greeks believed this celestial event and its rising at dawn brought with it extreme heat, drought, and even disease,” NWS Atlanta wrote in an explainer.

The Romans believed that its brightness combined with the sun’s heat resulted in a hotter stretch of days.

The NWS advises that because dangerous heat and humidity from “dog days” can be harmful to humans, but also pets and other animals, be mindful of having your pets in the heat.

For more information, read here.