Residents of Northwest Georgia should prepare for scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, with the potential for damaging wind gusts and hail up to quarter size. The National Weather Service has issued an advisory for the region, urging caution during peak thunderstorm activity. Today’s forecast includes a slight chance of showers early, transitioning to a higher chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 PM. The skies will be partly sunny with a high near 83 degrees. Winds will shift from light south to southwest at 5 to 10 mph. The chance of precipitation is currently estimated at 30%. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are likely to continue, primarily before 3 AM. Expect mostly cloudy skies and a low around 60 degrees. A south wind will be blowing at approximately 5 mph. The chance of precipitation increases to 60%, with anticipated rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half of an inch. Looking ahead, the risk of thunderstorms persists throughout the weekend, with **Saturday posing the greatest threat for severe weather.** Saturday’s forecast predicts a chance of showers and thunderstorms, evolving into showers and possibly thunderstorms after 8 AM. Some of these storms could produce heavy rainfall. Temperatures will be cooler, with a high near 72 degrees. South winds will blow at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 20 mph. The chance of precipitation is high at 90%, with expected rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch.