Another round of scattered showers and thunderstorms is expected across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia today, continuing a familiar summertime pattern that will bring afternoon storms and increasing heat through the coming week.

Showers and thunderstorms are most likely during the afternoon and early evening hours today, with some storms capable of producing locally heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and frequent lightning. High temperatures will reach around 89 degrees before storms begin to develop.

Rain chances decrease tonight, with only a slight chance of an evening shower before skies become mostly cloudy. Overnight lows will fall to around 70 degrees.

Friday will be a little hotter, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 91. Only an isolated afternoon thunderstorm is expected, but heat index values could climb into the upper 90s. Similar conditions will continue through the weekend, with afternoon highs in the lower 90s and scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms each day.

Forecasters say temperatures will gradually increase into early next week as high pressure strengthens across the Southeast. Heat index values could reach 100 to 105 degrees this weekend and may approach Heat Advisory criteria by early next week, especially across portions of Georgia.

Despite the rising temperatures, daily afternoon thunderstorms are expected to continue through at least Wednesday, offering some temporary relief from the heat while also bringing the potential for heavy downpours and isolated gusty winds.

Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and remember that if thunder roars, head indoors.