High heat and humidity one more day; some relief is near

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The upper level ridge begins to weaken today. The combination of morning lows in the mid to upper 70s and afternoon sunshine will produce oppressive  conditions this afternoon. High temperatures should peak between 95 and 100 degrees and combine with the humidity to produce heat index values between 100 and 109 degrees! Heat of this magnitude is potentially hazardous for vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly and pets. Precautions, such as frequent hydration, limiting outdoor activities and utilizing AC should be taken to avoid heat related illnesses. The intensity of the summer heat and humidity will pull back some on Thursday. It should be sufficient for the development of scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon with a couple of those storms  carrying the potential for strong downburst winds. The extent of activity and the existence of any lingering outflow boundaries will probably dictate where storms are most pronounced Thursday afternoon. The randomness of these features make it difficult to pinpoint any severe risk, although there maybe a slightly higher threat in Northwest Georgia.