Anyone from the South knows it’s hot this time of year in Alabama. It’s a steamy, thick heat that can drain anyone as soon as he or she walks out the door. Unfortunately, the next few days are dangerously hot, even for our standards.

The big heat begins Wednesday with even higher temperatures coming Thursday and through the weekend. Excessive heat watches and warnings have been issued, and people are encouraged to review safety rules for working outside or people without proper shelter and air conditioning. It’s also not safe for any amount of time for people or pets to be left in vehicles without air conditioning.

North Alabama

Mostly sunny with a high near 94. Clear overnight with a low of 72.

Central Alabama

Increasing clouds with a high of 96. Overnight, mostly clear with a low of 74.

South Alabama

Mostly sunny with a high of 95. Clear Wednesday night with a low of 71.

Gulf Coast

Mostly sunny with a few showers and storms in the afternoon. High of 96 and heat index of 110. Clear overnight with a low of 75.