Northwest Georgia residents should be prepared for scattered thunderstorms this afternoon, with a potential for strong, isolated severe thunderstorms bringing gusty winds. The National Weather Service has issued an advisory indicating a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 PM today. The day will start cloudy, gradually becoming mostly sunny with a high near 83 degrees Fahrenheit. A south wind will be blowing between 5 to 10 mph, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph. The risk of thunderstorms continues into the night, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 AM, and a slight chance of further activity after 2 AM. Temperatures will dip to a low around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The wind will be calmer in the evening, after beginning as a southwest wind around 5 mph. Wind gusts could reach as high as 15 mph. Looking ahead, forecasters predict more widespread thunderstorm activity from Friday into Saturday. While most storms are expected to be relatively mild, a few may become strong to marginally severe, potentially producing gusty winds, small hail, and frequent lightning.