Residents of Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for another week of unusually warm and dry weather, with temperatures remaining significantly above average and a critical fire weather threat looming for Monday afternoon.

Forecasters warn that while the weather may feel pleasant, the persistent dry spell is heightening drought concerns, and meaningful rainfall appears unlikely until the end of next week.

Record Warmth Persists

The short-term forecast calls for a continuation of summer-like conditions, with high temperatures running 10 to 15 degrees above the seasonal norm.

Highs throughout the week will settle into the mid to upper 70s, with overnight lows generally in the 50s. While a weak cold front is expected to pass through Northwest Georgia on Sunday and Monday, it will offer little in the way of moisture. The only noticeable effect will be slightly cooler overnight lows—potentially dipping into the low 40s—across the northern half of the region early next week.

“Highs will continue to run on the warm side of normal through the short term,” said a weather service spokesperson. “It remains on the dry side out there, but southwest winds will start to bring some moisture back into the area, preventing overnight lows from falling as far as they did last week. Get out there and enjoy the nice weather!”

Critical Fire Weather Alert for Monday

The combination of persistent high temperatures and extremely low humidity has resulted in a heightened risk of fire ignition and spread.

Forecasters have issued a warning for critical fire weather conditions expected for Monday afternoon. Relative humidity (RH) is projected to fall sharply into the 30% range for most of the area. This coupled with dry fuel conditions means any sparks or escaped burns could quickly escalate.

Authorities urge residents to exercise extreme caution regarding outdoor burning, campfires, and the disposal of smoking materials, especially during the peak afternoon heat.

Drought Conditions Unlikely to Improve

The long-term outlook remains uneventful, continuing the pattern of above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation. The ongoing drought conditions in the region are not expected to see relief in the immediate future.

Soaking rainfall that would significantly improve the current drought is unlikely through at least next Thursday. Rain chances throughout the current work week are extremely limited, remaining below 10 to 15 percent, as strong high pressure (ridging) dominates the Eastern United States, pushing storm systems north of Georgia.

Potential for Significant Rainfall Next Weekend

While the immediate outlook is dry, there is increasing confidence in a significant pattern change toward the end of the forecast period.

Indications suggest that a low-pressure system moving eastward, coupled with a breakdown of the existing high-pressure ridge, may bring much-needed moisture to the area next weekend, spanning Friday through Sunday.

Rain chances are currently forecast to be in the 40 to 50 percent range during this potential shift. Preliminary estimates are encouraging, with potential accumulated precipitation values closer to 2 inches over a two-day period in the Northwest region.

While the timing remains uncertain, forecasters note that confidence is increasing that precipitation will finally affect the area, potentially bringing the drought relief the region desperately needs.