Tropical Depression Ida could drench the NC mountains this week. Here’s the forecast
Tropical Depression Ida could soak the North Carolina mountains as it makes its way from the Gulf Coast this week.
Heavy rain, localized flooding, gusty winds and isolated severe weather are also possible for parts of Western North Carolina into Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
A flash flood watch has been issued through Wednesday afternoon for Cherokee and Clay counties, in the southwestern corner of the state. While those areas have a low chance of tornadoes, they could receive 2 to 4 inches of rain, with the potential for “locally higher amounts,” the weather service said.
Flood watches have also been issued starting Tuesday near Asheville, Boone and other mountain destinations, which could also see isolated tornadoes, forecasters said.
The potential for damage comes after the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred passed through the region on Aug. 17, leading to deadly flooding in Haywood County, McClatchy News reported. The county on Tuesday issued a state of emergency due to Ida.
In the Charlotte area, forecasters on Tuesday warned that “isolated severe thunderstorms, with a weak and brief tornado or two, will be possible, mainly late this afternoon and this evening.”
Across Western North Carolina, the storm conditions could lead to “flash flooding of urban areas or small streams” as well as “downed trees and power lines,” the weather service said. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways.
Tropical Depression Ida was a Category 4 hurricane when it slammed into the Louisiana coast on Sunday. The storm lost strength before it headed toward Western North Carolina.
This story was originally published August 30, 2021 at 12:08 PM with the headline "Tropical Depression Ida could drench the NC mountains this week. Here’s the forecast."
