Severe thunderstorm watch issued for parts of metro Atlanta

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for parts of metro Atlanta until late Sunday morning, officials said.

The watch was issued amid a marginal risk (level 1 of 5) for severe storms across much of Georgia as a system moves in from Alabama, according to the National Weather Service.

The system will track east-southeast once it moves into Georgia, where it will impact the south side of Atlanta and central portion of the state, the NWS said.

“Thunderstorms may develop on Sunday,” the NWS said. “Some may be severe with damaging winds and large hail as primary threats.”

Wind gusts might reach 70 mph in some areas, and the large hail could grow to the size of golf balls, officials warn.

But things should dry out by Sunday afternoon when temperatures reach the mid-80s, according to Channel 2 Action News meteorologist Ashley Kramlich.

By Monday, temperatures will continue to heat up.

The start to the week is projected to be hot and steamy with highs in the upper 80s through Tuesday. After that, things will be slighter cooler. Friday will see lows in the mid 50s.