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Extreme Heat Warning Issued for Savannah and Chatham County

Community members in Savannah utilize cooling centers to cope with extreme heat.

News Summary

Savannah and Chatham County are under an Extreme Heat Warning, with heat index values expected to reach 115°F. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. Cooling centers are open to provide relief, while a weak cold front is anticipated by the end of the week. Despite possible rain, heat dangers remain a priority as high temperatures are expected to linger.

Savannah and Chatham County are currently under an Extreme Heat Warning, with temperatures soaring and heat index values predicted to reach up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday, July 28. The heat advisory is in effect from 11 AM to 8 PM today, urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the extreme weather.

By lunchtime, heat index values exceeded 105 degrees, signaling a serious health risk. High temperatures throughout the day are expected to approach the upper 90s, intensifying the already dangerous conditions. Communities located south of the Altamaha River, along with those in Montgomery and Toombs Counties, will also be affected by the Extreme Heat Warning.

Residents are advised to stay hydrated, wear light and loose-fitting clothing, and take breaks from outdoor activities whenever possible. There is an increased risk of heat-related illnesses due to the high temperatures, and the public is urged to remain vigilant during these peak heat hours.

Although the forecast anticipates scattered showers and storms following lunchtime, primarily driven by an afternoon sea breeze, severe weather is expected to be limited. However, isolated strong storms may bring gusty winds and heavy rainfall of up to 1 to 2 inches. The threat of storms is forecasted to diminish after sunset.

Beach enthusiasts should also prepare for the intense heat and high UV index conditions, particularly at popular spots like Hilton Head and Tybee Island, where there is a low risk for rip currents. The heat wave is projected to continue, with the first alerts indicating dangerously high heat indexes around 110 degrees for Wednesday and Thursday that could lead to more isolated storms.

In anticipation of cooler weather, a weak cold front is expected to approach on Friday. However, even with this front, temperatures are likely to remain in the mid to upper 90s. The weekend forecast does bring some relief, with expected highs around 90 degrees and a chance for showers and storms on Saturday, dropping temperatures further into the mid-80s on Sunday.

As the recent extreme heat poses a significant health risk, the City of Savannah is operating multiple cooling centers from 10 AM to 8 PM to offer residents a respite from the sweltering heat. The cooling centers include:

Delaware Center: 1815 Lincoln St
Moses Jackson Center: 1410 Richards St
Tompkins Regional Center: 2333 Ogeechee Road
Windsor Forest Community Center: 308 Briarcliff Rd
W.W. Law Regional Center: 900 E. Bolton St

City pools will have hours available from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM and then from 4:30 PM to 6 PM, providing additional options for cooling down. The Savannah community is encouraged to remain aware of the potential risks associated with extreme heat and to utilize community resources for safety.

Looking towards the following week, temperatures should remain slightly below average, with highs in the upper 80s expected by Monday. Additionally, a weak low pressure system is forming in the central Atlantic, with projections suggesting it may curve toward the Bahamas next week. However, no local impacts from this system are anticipated in the near future.

In conclusion, with the weather conditions forming a perfect storm for heat-related health issues, residents are strongly advised to stay indoors during peak hours, seek shaded areas, and avoid strenuous activities. The safety and well-being of the community depend on taking these heat advisories seriously.