A dry start to the week will give way to summerlike temperatures across Chattooga County before rain and thunderstorms return for the weekend.

Monday will be sunny with a high near 82 degrees and a light north wind. Monday night will be mostly clear and cool, with a low around 54.

The warming trend begins Tuesday with sunshine and a high near 86. Wednesday climbs to around 89 before temperatures reach near 90 degrees Thursday. The National Weather Service says temperatures across the region will run above normal for this time of year.

Despite the warmer afternoons, very dry air will remain in place during the first part of the week. Afternoon relative humidity could briefly fall to around 25 percent in some areas, increasing concerns about how quickly outdoor fires could spread.

The weather pattern begins changing later Thursday as high pressure weakens and winds become more southerly, allowing moisture to return to northwest Georgia.

There is a 20 percent chance of showers after 2 a.m. Thursday night, increasing to 40 percent Friday. Friday’s high should reach around 87.

Rain chances increase further over the weekend. Saturday brings a 50 percent chance of showers with a cooler high around 80. Saturday night also carries a 50 percent chance of rain.

Forecasters are paying particular attention to Sunday, when showers are likely along with the possibility of thunderstorms. The chance of precipitation is currently 60 percent, with a high near 77.

The National Weather Service says some forecast guidance indicates the atmosphere could become more favorable for stronger thunderstorms Sunday, although there remains disagreement among forecast models concerning how favorable the wind environment will be. It is still several days away, and the details will become clearer as the weekend approaches.