Breezy northwest winds and a sharp drop in temperatures are impacting Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia today, with colder air expected to linger through Monday.

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST Sunday as a tight pressure gradient between a developing Nor’easter and high pressure over the Plains drives strong northwest winds across Georgia.

Wind Advisory Details

• What: Northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph

• When: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST Sunday

• Where: Portions of northwest Georgia and large parts of the state, including central, north central, northeast, east central, southeast, and west central Georgia

• Impacts: Gusty winds may blow around unsecured objects, knock down tree limbs, and cause a few power outages

Safety Note: Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Drivers should use extra caution, particularly on open roads and bridges.

The strongest winds are expected during the advisory window, with gusts in the 25 to 40 mph range. Winds will remain breezy tonight and into Monday, although gusts above 35 mph should be less widespread.

Cold air advection from the northwest flow will keep temperatures well below normal. Highs today are expected in the 40s and low 50s, with widespread 40s forecast for Monday. The coldest period will likely occur Monday morning, when temperatures dip into the 20s. Combined with lingering wind, wind chills could fall into the 5 to 15 degree range across parts of Northwest Georgia.

By Monday night into Tuesday morning, winds will begin to ease as high pressure approaches. Clear skies and lighter winds will allow temperatures to drop further, with lows in the low to mid-20s across much of North Georgia, and some teens possible in higher elevations.

Even as temperatures rebound Tuesday afternoon into the low to mid-50s, very dry air will lead to elevated fire danger across north and central Georgia. Relative humidity is expected to drop below 25% for several hours Tuesday afternoon, and recent gusty winds may help dry out fuels. Residents should avoid outdoor burning and use caution with anything that could spark a fire.

Warmer air arrives midweek, with highs climbing into the 60s by Wednesday across much of Northwest Georgia.

The next chance for widespread rainfall returns Thursday and Friday as a cold front moves into the Southeast. Showers will become more likely late Wednesday night into Thursday, with the highest totals expected north of I-20. Current projections suggest 0.75 to 1.25 inches of rain in northern areas, with lighter amounts farther south. Isolated thunderstorms may be possible, but severe weather potential is still uncertain.

Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items today, prepare for freezing wind chills early this week, and stay weather-aware as late-week rain approaches.