MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Powerful winds and low humidity will raise the risk for fire dangers Saturday afternoon.

This Evening

It’s been a pleasant end to the week as most of Middle Georgia climbed into the lower 70s this afternoon. It was a bit breezier than expected, however, as many gusts eclipsed 20 mph from the west. These winds will slow tonight as they flow more from the west-southwest at 5-10 mph. Gusts could still reach to around 15 mph, however, and will begin to pick up again not long after sunrise tomorrow. Expect low temperatures in the low to mid 40s across the region under largely clear skies.

Tomorrow

A Fire Weather Watch is in effect for all of Middle Georgia until 8:00 PM EST tomorrow evening. This could be upgraded to a Red Flag Warning if the winds end up strong enough. This means that burning will largely be off limits across the region while the warning is in effect. High temperatures will largely reach the mid to upper 70s with wind flowing from the west-northwest at 8-17 mph, gusting anywhere from 20-30 mph.

The wind will slow overnight as some cirrus clouds pass overhead. Expect cold conditions with lows falling into the mid to upper 30s around Middle Georgia. Gusts could still push over 20 mph, however.

Sunday and Beyond

It will be a much cooler day after the strong winds Saturday. Highs will hover around the 60 degree mark under mostly sunny skies. Expect wind to generally flow out of the north at around 5-10 mph, gusting to around 15 mph. Sunday night will likely see temperatures dip towards the freezing point around the region.

Temperatures will begin to rebound some early next week ahead of a low pressure system that will bring storms on Wednesday. That rain is much needed across Middle Georgia as pollen levels have begun to climb thanks to the mostly sunny conditions and above average temperatures.

Follow Chief Meteorologist Aaron Lowery on Facebook (Aaron Lowery 41NBC) and Twitter (@ALowWX) for weather updates throughout the day. Also, you can watch his forecasts Monday through Friday on 41NBC News at 4, 5, 5:30, 6, and 11 p.m.