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Sizzling weekend ahead
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In Newton County, weekend temperatures are predicted to meet triple digits.

The main cause for high temperatures is the large high-pressure system building in the eastern U.S. right now, said State Climatologist Bill Murphey. Combined with the position of the high-pressure system, lack of clouds and high stability, residents could be in for a record-breaking weekend.

"The all-time high temperature of 105 degrees was last recorded in 1987," said Murphey. "We could very well approach that temperature on Saturday."

The Weather Channel predicted Saturday's high temperature to be 106 degrees in Covington.

Air quality will also worsen as temperatures rise, Murphey said.

This could affect active children and adults and people with respiratory diseases such as asthma, and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division advises those with these conditions to limit prolonged outdoor exertion.
In the extreme heat, the American Red Cross has some tips to prevent heat emergencies:

-Stay inside if possible

-Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy.

-Wear a hat or use an umbrella

-Drink lots of water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine which dehydrate the body
-Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein which increase metabolic heat.

-Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.

-Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.