WEATHER-TRAFFIC: Clouds part during dry evening commute

ATLANTA FORECAST

Friday: High: 86

Friday night: Low: 73

Saturday: High: 88

» For a detailed forecast, visit The Atlanta Journal-Constitution weather page.

The ominous clouds over much of metro Atlanta have mostly parted for now, allowing for a dry and sunny evening commute. However, severe storms are possible late this evening, according to Channel 2 Action News.

“New high resolution forecast model shows strong storms moving into the North Georgia mountains after midnight tonight,” Channel 2 Action News meteorologist Brian Monahan said.

Traffic is ramping up across metro Atlanta's interstates, but it's not all that bad compared to typical evening commute traffic, according to the WSB 24-hour Traffic Center.

There is a downed power pole blocking the westbound lanes on Sidney Marcus Boulevard at the Buford Spring Connector. No traffic can turn left from the connector onto Sidney Marcus, according to the Traffic Center.

With a 20 percent chance of isolated showers, it is likely isolated severe storms will miss metro Atlanta overnight. However, northwest Georgia is still at risk.

“Hazards include damaging winds, risk of hail and lightning,” Channel 2 meteorologist Katie Walls said.

After hitting a lull late Saturday morning, the weather should take a turn for the worse Saturday afternoon, as most of the state is under the risk of severe thunderstorms.

Because of pockets of cool air within the storm system, Georgia is under a moderate risk for hail that could damage car roofs, Channel 2 meteorologist Glenn Burns said. The chance of rain is 60 percent, and heavy downpours, frequent lightning and strong winds are expected as well.

Temperatures will drop slightly to the upper 80s during the storm system, which is expected to last through the middle of next week. Atlanta should get a reprieve from storms Sunday, when there is a 30 percent chance of precipitation.

Rain chances increase to 60 percent Monday and Tuesday, according to Channel 2.