Hurricane Isaias Shifts East; Heavy Rain and Wind Expected

YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. — Hurricane Isaias has strengthened and its track has shifted a little farther east, which means a bigger weekend impact for North Georgia and Western North Carolina, according to The Mountain Buzz meteorologist Greg Majewski.

In his Friday, Oct. 9 "Weather On The Go" forecast, Majewski said the storm has developed an eye on infrared satellite imagery and is expected to peak as a Category 3 hurricane. Data shown in the forecast, valid at 5 a.m. Friday, listed Isaias with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph and gusts to 155 mph.

Majewski expects Isaias to begin weakening as it nears the Gulf Coast. Landfall has shifted east of Pensacola, Fla., and is now expected Friday evening, a few hours earlier than previously forecast.

"So it's coming up right through the middle of Alabama, which means we're going to have a steady stream of moisture coming into North Georgia pretty much for about 24 hours," Majewski said. The track of the storm will continue into Western North Carolina, bringing soaking rains and gusty winds.

Rain chances increase Friday night and continue all day Saturday, with very breezy conditions. Majewski said a flash flood watch and a high wind watch are both in effect. The forecast calls for heavy rain and thunderstorms Saturday, with a high near 67.

Friday will stay fairly calm, with highs in the 70s and a breeze picking up as the pressure gradient builds ahead of the storm. Majewski urged residents to use the day to prepare.

"Today is your day to get prepared, get everything you need to do, just get secured," he said.

Once the storm moves through, Majewski said a few morning showers are possible Sunday, with about a 50% chance of rain and a high near 72. Sunny skies and above-normal temperatures return next week, with highs in the low to mid-80s Monday through Wednesday.