Scorching Temperatures Scorch Southeast This Weekend

Hot, dry conditions raise wildfire risk as records could fall

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:26am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a hazy, scorching horizon under a blazing sun, with any physical structures or objects dwarfed by the overwhelming natural forces.The relentless heat wave gripping the Southeast serves as a sobering reminder of the region's vulnerability to the impacts of climate change.Savannah Today

A prolonged heatwave is expected to grip the Southeast this weekend, with temperatures soaring into the 90s and setting potential record highs in Savannah, Georgia. The hot, dry conditions have also elevated the risk of wildfires across the region.

Why it matters

Extreme heat events can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, and can also contribute to the spread of wildfires that threaten homes and businesses. This prolonged hot spell is a concerning sign of the impacts of climate change on local weather patterns.

The details

Temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 80s to lower 90s across much of the region on Thursday, with the hottest conditions expected west of Interstate 95. Friday and Saturday are expected to be even hotter, with highs potentially reaching the lower to middle 90s and threatening longstanding records in Savannah. The hot, dry weather has also elevated the risk of wildfires, especially in North Georgia and Upstate South Carolina.

  • Thursday, April 16: Highs in the upper 80s to lower 90s
  • Friday, April 17: Forecast high of 92°F, record high of 95°F (1967)
  • Saturday, April 18: Forecast high of 93°F, tying the record high (1967)

The players

Storm Team 3

The weather forecasting team at WSAV, the NBC affiliate serving the Savannah, Georgia area.

Scott Roberts

A meteorologist and member of the Storm Team 3 weather forecasting team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A hotter stretch of weather is expected for the rest of the week and into the weekend.”

— Scott Roberts, Meteorologist

What’s next

A cold front is expected to approach the region on Sunday, bringing increased cloud cover and a chance of scattered showers. Cooler and breezier weather is then forecast for early next week, with highs in the mid to upper 70s.

The takeaway

This prolonged heatwave is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change on local weather patterns. Residents should take precautions to stay cool and safe, and be vigilant about the heightened wildfire risk in the coming days.