Following heavy downpours on Thursday, Northwest Georgia residents should prepare for a continued pattern of scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms today, with forecasters warning of potential localized flooding.

The National Weather Service predicts a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, primarily between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. today. Temperatures will climb to a high near 93 degrees Fahrenheit, with oppressive heat index values soaring as high as 102 degrees, urging caution for outdoor activities. Winds will be calm, shifting to northwest around 5 mph.

A broad mid and upper-level troughing system, coupled with a surface front pushing south into northern Georgia later this morning, is responsible for sparking these diurnally-driven storms. These conditions are expected to persist, bringing showers and thunderstorms tonight, mainly before 8 p.m., with a 60% chance of precipitation and a low around 70 degrees.

The cold front will continue its southward trek overnight into Saturday. On Saturday, the chance of precipitation rises significantly to 80%, with showers and potentially thunderstorms expected after 2 p.m. The high will be cooler, near 82 degrees. While general rainfall amounts are anticipated to be between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, higher amounts are possible in stronger thunderstorms, increasing the risk of localized flooding.

The front is then expected to stall across middle Georgia, which will provide a “much needed break” for Northwest Georgia from the most intense storm activity. Cold air damming down the Appalachians will help to suppress widespread afternoon thunderstorms in the immediate area.

However, scattered storms remain in the weekend forecast. Sunday still carries a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, largely after 8 a.m., with a high near 77 degrees. By Sunday night, the chance drops to 30%, with a low around 65.

Looking ahead to Monday, the forecast calls for a 40% chance of showers and possible thunderstorms after 2 p.m., with a partly sunny sky and a high near 82 degrees.

Residents are advised to stay informed on the latest weather alerts, especially concerning the potential for heavy rainfall and localized flooding over the next few days.