Rain returns to Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia today as a cold front approaches the region. Forecasters say most of the area can expect three-quarters of an inch to an inch and a half of rainfall, with a few isolated spots possibly seeing up to two inches or more, especially across the higher elevations of far northwest Georgia.

Along with the rain, there is also a Marginal Risk for severe weather across much of north and central Georgia today — that’s a Level 1 out of 5. The primary threats include strong, damaging wind gusts and hail, but forecasters say an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, particularly during the afternoon and early evening hours. Storms are expected to move from northwest to southeast, reaching Chattooga, Walker, Dade, Floyd, and Gordon Counties later in the day.

Any thunderstorms that form will be efficient rain producers due to high moisture levels, meaning brief, localized flooding is possible, especially in areas where leaves are clogging drains. Widespread flooding is not expected after several weeks of dry soil conditions.

Once this system moves through, conditions will improve quickly. Drier and cooler weather will settle over Northwest Georgia through the end of the week. Highs will drop into the 40s and 50s by Thanksgiving Day, with cold, crisp mornings expected across the region. The next chance of rain does not return until early next week.

Residents should keep an eye on changing weather conditions today, especially as storms develop across Alabama and move into Northwest Georgia later this afternoon.