COLUMBUS, GA — As a persistent ridge of high pressure settles across the Southeast, residents in Columbus should brace for searing heat and limited rain chances to start the week, while Hurricane Erin is expected to restrengthen into a Category 4 storm offshore.
Dangerous Heat Builds Across Columbus Area
High temperatures are forecast to reach the mid-90s through at least Wednesday, with heat index values climbing into the low 100s by Monday afternoon. The lack of rainfall offers little relief, and health officials are urging people to take heat precautions.
The oppressive heat is the result of a stubborn high-pressure system blanketing the region, effectively suppressing rain chances across west-central Georgia.
Weekend Cool Down Expected as Rain Returns
Relief may arrive late in the week. A stalled front is expected to move through the Southeast starting Thursday, triggering a return of scattered showers and thunderstorms across the area. With increased cloud cover and precipitation, afternoon highs could dip into the 80s by the weekend.
This change in weather will mark a notable shift from the earlier part of the week, which is likely to remain dry and unseasonably hot.
Hurricane Erin Could Intensify Again
In the Atlantic, Hurricane Erin remains a Category 3 storm as of Sunday evening, undergoing an eyewall replacement cycle. Meteorologists anticipate that Erin will complete this cycle later tonight or early Monday morning and restrengthen into a Category 4 hurricane…