Hot weekend ahead: heat indices could top 100 degrees across Etowah County

GADSDEN — Expect a hot, sticky weekend across Gadsden and Etowah County, with forecasters watching rising temperatures and the daily chance of afternoon storms.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham calls for a high near 91 degrees today with a roughly 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. A few showers may linger this evening before skies clear, with an overnight low near 72.

Temperatures climb over the weekend, with highs in the low to mid 90s Saturday and Sunday and heat indices — how hot it actually feels — reaching 100 to 106 degrees. That puts the area at a moderate to major heat risk, especially for older residents, young children, outdoor workers and anyone spending the day at the World’s Longest Yard Sale.

No severe weather watches or warnings are in effect, but forecasters note that afternoon storms can produce lightning and brief downpours. Residents are urged to drink plenty of water, take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, check on vulnerable neighbors and never leave children or pets in vehicles.

GTN will post immediately if the Weather Service issues a heat advisory or storm warning.