Dangerous Heat Wave Hits Georgia: How to Stay Safe as Temperatures Soar

Georgia is facing a dangerous heat wave this week, with much of the state at risk for serious heat-related illness. Here’s what you need to know to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

🥵 Why It Matters: Extreme heat can be deadly, especially for children, older adults, and people without air conditioning. Staying safe in this heat is about more than comfort—it’s about protecting lives.

🌡️ What’s Happening: The National Weather Service says most of Georgia will see “major” to “extreme” heat risk on June 24 and 25.

• Many areas, including Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta, are in the highest risk zones.
• This level of heat can cause illness fast, especially if you don’t have good cooling or enough water.

🚨 Between the Lines: This heat wave is not just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous.

• People who work outside, kids, pets, and anyone without air conditioning are at the highest risk.
• Hospitals and emergency services may see more calls for heat-related problems.

🧊 How to Stay Safe:

• Drink lots of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Take breaks in the shade or indoors as much as possible.
• Never leave kids or pets in cars, even for a minute.
• Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those without air conditioning.
• If you must work outside, use a buddy system and take frequent breaks.

🕒 The Big Picture: Heat waves are becoming more common and more dangerous in Georgia. Planning ahead—like making sure your air conditioning works and knowing where to go to cool off—can save lives.