A heat wave set to build in the southeastern United States as Memorial Day weekend begins will challenge records dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Temperatures are forecast to approach the century mark as areas from Alabama and Tennessee to Georgia, northern and central Florida, the Carolinas and parts of Virginia endure their hottest weather yet this season.
"In what has been a warmer-than-normal May to date across the Southeast, temperatures will take a notable turn upwards through the end of the week and into Memorial Day weekend," AccuWeather Long-Range Meteorologist Max Vido said.
Highs already 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, generally in the lower 90s, into Thursday will kick into another gear starting on Friday.
The heat is likely to reach its peak on Sunday.
Cities such as Nashville, Montgomery, Atlanta, Augusta, Pensacola, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Columbia, Charlotte and Raleigh, and Richmond will experience highs in the middle and upper 90s to lower 100s.
"Most high temperature records across the region stand in the 90s, so these cities are expected to consistently challenge records during the heat wave," Mr. Vido said.
While the hot, dry conditions will provide great weather for cookouts and swimming at local lakes, pools or beaches, it can prove to be dangerous for those who do not take necessary precautions while outdoors.
"AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures above 100 due to sunshine and moderate humidity levels can lead to heat-related illnesses, particularly in older adults and children," Mr. Vido said.
Precautions will need to be taken in order to lessen this risk.