Chattooga County residents can expect another warm and mostly sunny day Thursday, but a change in the weather pattern will bring increasing rain chances over the weekend.

According to the National Weather Service, Thursday will be mostly sunny with an afternoon high near 76 degrees. Winds will be light, becoming northeast around 5 mph. Thursday night will be mostly clear, with temperatures dropping to around 47 degrees.

Friday will bring even warmer temperatures, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 79 degrees. Friday night will become mostly cloudy, with an overnight low around 55.

The weather begins changing Saturday as clouds increase ahead of an approaching storm system. There is a 20 percent chance of afternoon showers, with a high near 73 degrees.

Rain chances increase significantly Saturday night, particularly after 2 a.m., when showers and possibly a thunderstorm are expected. The chance of precipitation Saturday night is 60 percent.

Sunday looks to be the wettest day of the weekend, with an 80 percent chance of showers and a high near 65 degrees. Rain is expected to continue into Sunday evening before gradually diminishing.

National Weather Service forecasters say there is still uncertainty about how much rain the approaching system will produce. Some weather models suggest substantial rainfall, while others indicate considerably lighter amounts.

Although widespread flooding is not currently expected, heavier thunderstorms could produce localized flooding in areas that receive repeated downpours.

Looking ahead to next week, Monday will be mostly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of showers and a high near 71. Tuesday brings a 40 percent chance of showers and temperatures reaching the middle 70s.

For residents planning outdoor activities this weekend, Friday offers the best opportunity for warm, dry weather before rain chances increase late Saturday and Sunday.