The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch for Chattooga County and all of Northwest Georgia, effective until 8 PM this evening, as thunderstorms with heavy rainfall continue to be a threat.  Forecasters warn that a very moist airmass will remain entrenched across the area over the next several days, leading to multiple rounds of scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms through this evening.  Since Saturday, widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches have already been observed within the watch area, with isolated locations reporting up to 5 inches. The NWS anticipates an additional 2 to 4 inches of rain, with higher localized amounts potentially reaching up to 5 inches, are possible through Monday evening. This significant accumulation raises concerns for flash flooding and river and creek rises.

Current and Extended Forecast:

For today, residents can expect a chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 8 AM. The day will be mostly cloudy with a high near 74 degrees. East winds are forecast at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph. The chance of precipitation today stands at 40%.

The wet pattern is set to continue for much of the week:

• Monday Night: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64 degrees. East wind around 5 mph, with gusts up to 15 mph.
• Tuesday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 75 degrees. East wind around 5 mph.
• Tuesday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66 degrees. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
• Wednesday: A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 PM. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
• Wednesday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 PM, then a slight chance of showers between 11 PM and 2 AM. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
• Thursday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 PM. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85 degrees.
• Thursday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 PM. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67 degrees.
• Friday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 PM. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86 degrees.

Local emergency management officials urge residents in affected areas to remain vigilant, monitor weather updates, and be prepared for potential flooding. Never drive or walk through flooded roads, as even shallow water can be dangerous and deceptively deep. Stay informed through official weather channels and be ready to take action if flood warnings are issued for your specific area.