Thunderstorms are expected to roll through North Georgia today and Sunday, bringing rain and win and perhaps thwarting weekend outdoor plans.

The National Weather Service forecasts scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and tonight, and some may be severe. A cold front moving through the Southeast is expected to bring unstable weather and cooler temperatures by Sunday night.

Gusty winds, hail and lightning are likely, along with heavy rains. The storms may continue through tonight and into Sunday.

Today's Rubber Duck Derby was held as scheduled at Lake Lanier before the rains came. Sunday's rains could affect the annual Butterfly Release at Wilshire Trails. 

The chance of precipitation today is 90 percent, dropping to 60 percent on Sunday. Skies are expected to clear with cooler temperatures on Monday.

About three-quarters of an inch rain has been recorded today at the NWS automated recording station at Gainesville's Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport.

The extra rain could continue to help raise the water level at Lake Lanier, which sat at 1,065.27 feet above sea level at 2:15 p.m. That is less than six feet below full pool of 1,071 feet.

Storms also have caused flights to be halted at Atlanta's Jackson-Hartsfield International Airport.

Check back for weather updates throughout the afternoon.