Heat, humidity lead to red alert for AJC Peachtree Road Race

ATLANTA — With the forecast calling for high temperatures and humidity, organizers of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race on Monday issued a red alert for Tuesday’s race. That means conditions could be dangerous and runners may need to slow down or consider stopping.

“We want to get the word out that people should start hydrating and may need to adjust their race day plan in terms of pace and whether they should participate, should they have medical conditions made worse in this weather,” the Atlanta Track Club said in a statement.

Channel 2's Audrey Washington spoke to participants at a news conference Monday. Their goal, more than anything, is to stay healthy during the race. They say even though there will be plenty of heat and humidity in Tuesday's forecast, the plan is to stay hydrated and pace themselves.

"I'll drink a lot of water and Gatorade and things like that but ultimately, the fact that it's a 10K is good because after you get started, it'll be done before you even feel the heat, so it'll be good," said Alphine Tuliamuk, who is running in the race.

Meteorologist Brian Monahan said by the start of the race, temperatures will be in the low 70s and conditions will be muggy and cloudy. Rain is not expected during the race.

“Please understand the risks associated with strenuous exercise in these conditions and alter your race plan accordingly,” the Atlanta Track Club said. “If you have a condition that is worsened by high heat and humidity, please consult a medical professional before participating.”

We'll have live Team 2 coverage of the race beginning at 4:30 a.m. The race begins with the wheelchair race around 6:45 a.m.

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Cox Media Group