A wet and stormy Wednesday is expected across Chattooga County as a cold front approaches Northwest Georgia, bringing widespread showers, thunderstorms and the possibility of gusty winds.

The National Weather Service says rain and thunderstorm coverage will increase throughout the morning, with a 90 percent chance of precipitation today. The high temperature will reach around 72 degrees, with southeast winds of 5 to 15 miles per hour and gusts as high as 25 miles per hour.

Rainfall amounts between three-quarters of an inch and one inch are expected, although some locations could receive heavier amounts. A few areas in far North Georgia could see more than two inches of rain.

Forecasters say the overall threat of severe weather is low, but an isolated strong to severe thunderstorm cannot be ruled out, particularly during the afternoon. The main concern would be gusty winds. Locally heavy rainfall could also produce minor street flooding or standing water in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage.

The rainfall will provide some welcome relief following several weeks of dry conditions across the region.

Showers and thunderstorms will remain likely Wednesday evening before gradually diminishing overnight. The low will be around 61 degrees.

Thursday will bring improving conditions, with partly sunny skies and a high near 75. Friday will be mostly sunny with a high around 73.

Cooler temperatures will arrive for the weekend. Saturday will be mostly sunny with a high near 66, followed by an overnight low around 39. Sunday will also be mostly sunny with a high near 65.

The cooler weather will continue into early next week, with highs in the middle 60s Monday and overnight lows dropping into the upper 30s.

Residents should remain alert for changing weather conditions today, especially during periods of heavier rainfall and thunderstorms.