Morning Weather Update: Flash Flood Risk Continues Through Today

The threat for heavy rainfall and isolated flash flooding continues this morning as a slow-moving cold front gradually pushes south across the western Carolinas. While widespread flooding is not expected, areas that see repeated rounds of thunderstorms could experience rapid rises on creeks and streams, flooded roadways, and localized flash flooding.

The atmosphere remains loaded with tropical moisture, and storms are moving along the front instead of quickly crossing it. That means some communities could see multiple rounds of heavy rain over the same locations. Rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are likely in the heavier storms, with localized totals of 2 to 3 inches possible through late morning. A few isolated locations, especially along the eastern slopes of the mountains where upslope flow enhances rainfall, could see even higher amounts if storms repeatedly track over the same area.

One limiting factor this morning is that storms have not been as intense as they could be because the front is separating more unstable air to the south from slightly more stable air along and behind the boundary. However, as the front continues south this afternoon, storms will move into a hotter and more unstable air mass. That could allow thunderstorms to become stronger, produce heavier rainfall rates, and increase the flash flood threat across portions of the foothills and Piedmont.

If you encounter a flooded roadway today, remember that it only takes a small amount of moving water to sweep away a vehicle. Never drive through water covering the road, and stay alert for rapidly changing conditions if heavy rain develops over your area.