Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are starting the work week with lingering cold, as early morning temperatures dipped into the low 20s Monday, with wind chills making it feel like the teens.

The good news: this is expected to be the coldest morning of the week. As the day goes on, temperatures will rebound nicely, climbing into the mid to upper 40s across Northwest Georgia, with some spots reaching the low 50s. Clear skies tonight will allow temperatures to drop back into the upper 20s and low 30s by Tuesday morning.

A big warm-up arrives Tuesday, as strong southwest winds ahead of an approaching weather system push afternoon highs into the mid to upper 50s in Chattooga County and surrounding areas. Clouds will increase through the day, with light rain developing late Tuesday afternoon and evening, first in far Northwest Georgia, then spreading southeast overnight into Wednesday. The rain is expected to be widespread but generally light, with no thunderstorms anticipated.

Looking ahead, another round of rain is possible Wednesday before a cold front clears the region by late afternoon or evening. Colder air will follow, bringing below-freezing temperatures back Thursday morning, along with wind chills in the teens. After that, quieter weather is expected, with highs returning to the 50s by the end of the week, though overnight lows may continue to hover near freezing.