Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect another round of summer-like heat this week, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 80s and low 90s through the weekend.

Forecasters say conditions will remain mostly dry through today, although isolated afternoon thunderstorms could develop mainly along and north of the Interstate 85 corridor. Northwest Georgia is expected to see a better chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms beginning Wednesday afternoon and continuing into the weekend.

Meteorologists say moisture will gradually increase across the region as winds shift from the southwest, bringing a return of more humid conditions. While any storms that develop Wednesday are expected to remain below severe limits, brief gusty winds and lightning will be possible.

Rain chances are expected to increase significantly Thursday through early next week as a weakening cold front approaches North Georgia. Forecast models show scattered to numerous afternoon and evening thunderstorms each day, especially across North and West Georgia, including Chattooga County.

Some areas of North Georgia could receive between two and three inches of rainfall over the next seven days. The additional rainfall would help ease ongoing drought conditions affecting portions of the region.

Temperatures are expected to remain above average despite the increased rain chances, with highs generally staying in the 80s and lower 90s through the Memorial Day weekend period.