Forecast track map for Hurricane Isaias over the Gulf of Mexico and northern Gulf Coast, with labels for Mobile and Panama City — A forecast track map shows Hurricane Isaias approaching the northern Gulf Coast as North Atlanta braces for rain and wind later in the week.

Hurricane Isaias could bring several inches of rain, strong wind gusts and a risk of tornadoes to North Atlanta from Friday evening through early Sunday.

The storm became the first Atlantic hurricane of the season Thursday morning as it moved across the western Gulf of Mexico. Isaias had sustained winds of approximately 80 mph and was expected to strengthen before approaching the northern Gulf Coast late Friday or early Saturday.

North Atlanta is not in the coastal landfall zone, but the storm’s inland path could affect communities across Cherokee, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton and Gwinnett counties. The National Weather Service’s Thursday morning outlook identifies damaging wind, flooding and isolated tornadoes as the principal threats for north and central Georgia.

When conditions could deteriorate

Thursday should remain dry, with no hazardous weather expected across North Atlanta. Clouds and easterly winds will increase Friday, but the more consequential weather is expected to arrive Friday evening.

Periods of heavy rain could continue into Saturday before the storm moves away early Sunday. Widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches are possible, with locally higher amounts beneath stronger rain bands.

That much rain over a relatively short period could overwhelm storm drains, raise creeks and produce flash flooding in low-lying areas. The risk will be greater wherever repeated bands pass over the same communities.

Strong gusts could also bring down trees or limbs, particularly where saturated soil weakens their hold. Scattered power outages would be possible even if sustained winds remain below hurricane or tropical-storm strength in the northern suburbs.

A few tornadoes may develop within the storm’s outer bands. These tornadoes can form quickly and may provide less warning than those associated with more conventional severe thunderstorms.

The forecast remains sensitive to the storm’s path

The extent of the local impact will depend on Isaias’ exact track and speed after landfall. A path farther west could reduce rain and wind across North Atlanta, while a more easterly route could place the suburbs beneath stronger bands.

Confidence that the region will experience some effects is increasing, but the severity remains uncertain. The National Hurricane Center’s Isaias advisory archive will carry track and intensity updates as the storm approaches the Gulf Coast.

No widespread North Atlanta school closures or municipal event cancellations had been announced Thursday morning. Organizers of Friday and Saturday outdoor events may adjust schedules if the forecast worsens.

What residents can do before Friday evening

Residents should secure patio furniture, umbrellas, decorations and other objects that could become airborne. Phones and backup batteries should be charged before the heaviest weather arrives.

Drivers should expect reduced visibility, standing water and possible road closures. A flooded road should never be crossed, even when the water appears shallow. Moving water can conceal damaged pavement and sweep a vehicle from the roadway.

Weather alerts should remain enabled overnight Friday and Saturday. If a tornado warning is issued, move to a small interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.

The National Weather Service’s Atlanta-area forecast page will carry updated watches, warnings and local timing as Isaias moves inland.