How hot will it be? The National Weather Service predicts there is a 39.3 percent chance that temperatures for the Games will be above normal – normal being the high 80s. That doesn’t mention the humidity or the dreaded “urban heat effect,” the mix of concrete, cars and pollution that will make the city feel 12 degrees hotter.
It’s the 2 million spectators that worry Olympic officials. At least, says Doug Arnot of the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games, the competitors “have been preparing themselves for the heat.” The civilians will have to seek shelter where they can; the state and Coca-Cola are building parks with tents.
Organizers have made a few concessions for the athletes. The marathon will start at 7:05 a.m. And then there are the horses. Equestrian lovers have been boiling at the potential danger facing horses running the 14- to 16-mile events. Officials responded by cutting the courses and will allow pit stops – fans and water will be available between the dressage, jumping and speed sequences. “A sort of car wash,” jokes Susan White, a veterinarian. Now, if they would only shorten the decathlon to three events. ..CN.-The Games Heat Up
It’s expected to be hotter in Atlanta than at any of the past five Summer Games
1996 Atlanta [*] 88 F 1992 Barcelona 86 1988 Seoul 77 1984 Los Angeles 83 1980 Moscow 71 1976 Montreal 75
The high humidity,coupled with an “urban heat effect” caused by big buildings,hot cars and heat trapping pollution will make the city an oven for athletes.
Regional Temp Urban Heat Temp At Relative Heat Effect Stadium Humidity Index 88 F + 12 F = 100 F + 55% = 124 F
[*}=Atlanta’s 30 year average temperature for the period of July 19-Aug 4. Sources: Nat’l; Climate Data Center in Asheville N.C. Nat’l Weather Center and American Forrests in D.C.
