Expect dangerously high heat in Atlanta this week

Forecasters are expecting hotter-than-average temperatures through at least July 2 in Georgia as summer rears its sweltering gaze upon the South.

Why it matters: Georgia's humidity, combined with temperatures reaching 90 degrees or above, can lead to heat illness outdoors or in areas without air conditioning, especially among children, older adults, or anyone physically exerting themselves.

What they're saying: That's according to Ryan Willis, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service office in Peachtree City.

• Willis told Axios we should expect temperatures in the mid-90s in metro Atlanta on Monday.
• But the heat index temperature could be anywhere between 97 to "maybe pushing 100 degrees" on Monday due to the increasing humidity, Willis said.

Stunning stat: Willis said we're not cooling off much at night either. Nighttime temperatures have only dropped into the 70s.

What to expect: Willis said we're probably going to experience temperatures in the mid to upper 90s throughout the week.

• Tuesday might be the hottest day of the week, with temperatures somewhere between 96 to 97 degrees, he told Axios.

What we're watching: We could have some isolated to scattered "pop-up storms" each afternoon that could help cool things off briefly, Willis told Axios.

Safety recommendations: The meteorologist reminds folks to stay hydrated and to take breaks somewhere cool, especially during the afternoons.