Northwest Georgia is heading into a long stretch of dry and comfortable weather, with little to no significant rainfall expected through the upcoming weekend.
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a point over the month to 3.3 percent.
That compares to 3.2 percent one year ago.
The region’s labor force increased by 2,155 over the month and by 4,086 over the year, reaching 459,952, an all-time high. The number of employed residents also rose, increasing by 2,996 over the month and 3,515 over the year to 444,625, also an all-time high.
Initial unemployment claims were up by 718 over the month and by 852 over the year, reaching 2,557.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the numbers are a strong sign during Economic Development Week, noting that more Georgians are securing jobs that support families and strengthen communities.
Allergy sufferers across Northwest Georgia are dealing with very high grass pollen levels today, creating a significant allergy risk throughout the area. Forecasters say the elevated pollen counts are expected to remain high through Friday.
Tree pollen levels are currently listed as moderate, but the high concentration of grass pollen is likely to trigger symptoms for many residents, including sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and headaches.
Recent warm temperatures combined with spring growth have helped fuel the increase in pollen across the region. Dry conditions and breezy weather can also allow pollen to spread more easily through the air.
Health experts recommend limiting outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, keeping windows closed, showering after spending time outside, and taking allergy medications as directed.
Conditions could begin to improve later this weekend as increased rain chances move back into Northwest Georgia.
Rain will continue pushing out of Northwest Georgia this morning as a cold front moves away from the region. Behind it, high pressure will build in across Tennessee and North Georgia, bringing drier and cooler conditions through Friday.
A Trenton man has been sentenced to consecutive life prison terms after being convicted by a Dade County jury on multiple child sexual abuse charges.
State Senator Lanny Thomas of Trion has been appointed to serve on several key Georgia Senate committees, giving Northwest Georgia a voice in major policy areas.
Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County, is expected to see several days of unsettled weather as showers and thunderstorms move through the region over the coming week.
Lookout Mountain CASA, also known as Court Appointed Special Advocate, is searching for an experienced and mission-driven leader to serve as its next Executive Director.
The position offers the opportunity to lead a respected nonprofit organization that works to advocate for the best interests of children in foster care across Walker, Catoosa, Dade, and Chattooga counties.
Starting pay for the position is $43,000 annually. Limited benefits include sick leave, annual leave, and travel reimbursement.
Applicants should preferably have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in areas such as business finance, social work, volunteerism, or grant management.
Those interested are asked to submit a cover letter and resume to Lookout Mountain CASA, Inc., P.O. Box 285, LaFayette, Georgia 30728. Applications may also be sent by email to lookoutmtncasa@gmail.com.
The deadline to apply is May 8, 2026.














