Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are being urged to prepare for a potentially dangerous weekend as Hurricane Isaias approaches the northern Gulf Coast, bringing the threat of damaging winds, flooding and tornadoes to the region.

According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, Hurricane Isaias is expected to make landfall along the northern Gulf Coast late today before moving northward through Mississippi and Alabama into the Tennessee Valley.

The most significant impacts across Northwest Georgia are expected tonight through Sunday morning, with forecasters warning of an extended period of strong winds, heavy rainfall and the possibility of tornadoes.

Strong Winds Could Cause Widespread Power Outages

One of the biggest concerns will be the potential for damaging winds as Isaias moves inland and begins to weaken.

The National Weather Service says a strong pressure difference between the remnants of Isaias and high pressure over the Mid-Atlantic will produce prolonged easterly winds across much of North Georgia.

Wind gusts of 40 to 50 miles per hour will be possible from early Saturday through early Sunday.

A High Wind Watch has been issued for much of North Georgia.

Forecasters warn that the combination of strong winds and saturated ground could bring down trees and power lines, potentially causing numerous power outages.

Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor furniture and other loose objects, charge cell phones and prepare for possible extended power interruptions.

Heavy Rain And Flash Flooding Possible

Isaias is expected to produce widespread rainfall across Northwest Georgia beginning tonight and continuing through the weekend.

Rainfall totals of one to three inches are expected across much of the region, with localized amounts reaching five inches.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the area.

Repeated rounds of heavy rainfall could cause flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, locations with poor drainage and communities near creeks and streams.

Motorists are reminded never to attempt to drive across flooded roads.

Tornado Threat Saturday Into Sunday Morning

Perhaps the most serious concern will be the potential for tornadoes as the remnants of Isaias move northward.

The National Weather Service says atmospheric conditions could become favorable for tornado development across North and Central Georgia on Saturday, with the threat potentially continuing into early Sunday morning.

Several tornadoes will be possible, including during the overnight hours Saturday night.

While tornadoes associated with tropical systems are often brief and develop quickly, forecasters say the possibility of a stronger, longer-track tornado cannot be ruled out.

The National Weather Service specifically warns that tornadoes as strong as EF2 or EF3 could occur.

Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially overnight when many people will be sleeping.

Chattooga County Forecast

For today, mostly cloudy skies are expected across Chattooga County, with a high near 79 degrees. North winds of 5 to 10 miles per hour will become easterly during the afternoon, with gusts reaching 25 miles per hour.

Tonight, showers become increasingly likely, with thunderstorms possible toward daybreak. The low will be around 59 degrees, with easterly winds of 10 to 15 miles per hour and gusts as high as 40 miles per hour. The chance of precipitation is 50 percent.

Saturday is expected to bring the worst weather conditions, with showers and thunderstorms likely throughout the day. The high will be near 70 degrees, with wind gusts reaching 40 miles per hour and a 90 percent chance of precipitation.

Saturday night will remain stormy, with a 90 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Winds could gust to 35 miles per hour.

Conditions should gradually improve Sunday, although a 30 percent chance of showers will remain during the morning and early afternoon. The high will be near 72 degrees.

Improving Weather Next Week

The National Weather Service says much warmer and drier conditions are expected to return by Monday.

Columbus Day will bring sunshine and a high near 83 degrees, followed by sunny skies and highs in the middle 80s Tuesday through Thursday.

Residents Urged To Prepare Now

With the potential for damaging winds, flooding and tornadoes, residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans before severe weather arrives.

Keep phones charged, have flashlights and emergency supplies available, and identify a safe place inside your home in case a tornado warning is issued.

Residents should also avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.