Sandy Springs could see heavy rain, gusty winds and a possible tornado threat Friday into Saturday as Tropical Storm Isaias approaches the Gulf Coast.

The system strengthened from a tropical depression into a named storm early Wednesday, Oct. 7. The National Hurricane Center’s Wednesday morning update reported maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and forecast that Isaias would become a hurricane by Thursday.

The storm could become the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season. Its eventual track and strength will determine how much rain and wind reach North Georgia.

Georgia impacts could begin Friday

The National Weather Service’s Peachtree City office said Wednesday morning that confidence was increasing in potential heavy rainfall, gusty winds and tornado hazards across its forecast area Friday into Saturday.

Forecasters expect hurricane landfall along the northern Gulf Coast late Friday. However, uncertainty remains about where the storm will come ashore, how quickly it will move and how strong it will remain inland.

Heavy rainfall could become the primary concern later Saturday. The weather service said a slower-moving system could alter the threats of flash flooding, river flooding and tornadoes.

The office had no watches, warnings or advisories listed in its 6:32 a.m. Wednesday discussion.

Gulf Coast landfall forecast

AccuWeather’s forecast updated Wednesday morning projects Category 2 landfall late Friday night or early Saturday somewhere between southeastern Louisiana and the western Florida Panhandle.

AccuWeather forecasts widespread rainfall of 1 to 4 inches across parts of the Southeast, with heavier bands near the storm’s center. Those regional estimates are not a specific rainfall forecast for Sandy Springs.

Warm Gulf waters could support rapid strengthening, although wind shear could limit the storm’s development. The precise inland path remains uncertain, making local wind and rainfall totals subject to change.

Where to find updates

Residents can monitor the NWS Peachtree City website for updated forecasts and any watches or warnings affecting Sandy Springs.

The City of Sandy Springs website provides access to emergency notifications. Residents can also reach the city’s 24-hour Call Center at 770-730-5600.