ATLANTA — We’re closing in on breaking a weather record – and that’s not a good thing.
Atlanta hasn’t seen any measurable rain in 30 consecutive days, tied for the seventh longest dry stretch on record.
The last time Atlanta went this long without measurable rain was 1961. We could break the record dry streak of 39 days – set in 1884 – by late next week.
We'll have the latest forecast on when the winds will shift on Channel 2 Action News starting at 4.
More than 40 percent of the state is in an extreme or exceptional drought.
Our Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologists have been tracking the dry air and health alerts across metro Atlanta and north Georgia.
The lack of rain has made much of Georgia prime for wild fires. More than 35,000 acres have burned across north Georgia this year.
In Hall Co there is still heavy smoke from wildfires to the north. @BradNitzWSB @BMonahanWSB @GlennBurnsWSB pic.twitter.com/1bEimOJ1ow
— Wendy Corona (@WendyCoronaWSB) November 16, 2016
The Rough Ridge fire has burned 23,000 acres in Fannin County, forcing fire crews to work overtime to contain the flames.
Smoke forcing air quality alerts
Shifting winds have sent smoke billowing south toward metro Atlanta, forcing millions of residents to smell smoke and causing some to suffer health reactions.
There is a Code Red air quality alert issued, which means everyone should limit their time outdoors. People with breathing and lung issues should especially stay indoors.
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Meteorologist Brad Nitz said there will be a brief break from the smoke on Friday before the next cold front comes Saturday. But the front will not bring any rain.
A return to northwest winds comes in behind the front over the weekend.
Cox Media Group
