Hot summer weather will continue across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, with temperatures climbing into the lower 90s each afternoon and the daily chance of scattered thunderstorms remaining in the forecast.

Today will be partly sunny with a high near 90 degrees. Heat index values are expected to reach around 97 degrees before scattered showers and thunderstorms develop after 3 p.m. Rain chances stand at 60 percent, with storms gradually ending during the evening as temperatures fall to around 71 overnight.

Tuesday brings another mostly sunny day with a high near 90 and a 30 percent chance of afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Wednesday looks to be the driest day of the week, with mostly sunny skies and a high of 91 degrees.

By Thursday and Friday, isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms return while daytime highs remain in the lower 90s. Rain chances increase again next weekend, with showers and thunderstorms becoming more likely Saturday and Sunday.

Forecasters say a typical summertime weather pattern has settled across the region. While widespread severe weather is not expected, any thunderstorm that develops could produce damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, and brief localized flooding.

Residents planning outdoor activities should keep an eye on the sky each afternoon and move indoors immediately if thunder is heard.