Isolated flash flooding possible in the Triangle this weekend. What to know
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- Scattered storms may cause isolated flash flooding in the Triangle July 11-12.
- Recent heavy rainfall raises flood risk in certain areas, despite lower rain chances.
- Drivers should avoid floodwaters as even shallow depths can stall or sweep vehicles.
After days of heavy rain, most of the Triangle is expected to see a break in precipitation.
But, there is a chance for isolated flash flooding on Friday, July 11 and Saturday, July 12. Areas that have already received significant rainfall throughout the week are more sensitive to additional precipitation, and flash flooding could occur.
Here’s the forecast for the weekend.
More storms headed for the Triangle
Isolated storms and showers are expected to drop rain across the Triangle this weekend.
There’s around a 20% chance for scattered storms Friday afternoon and evening, said Andrew Kren, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Raleigh.
Chances increase slightly on Saturday to around 30%-40%. A weak system is expected to approach the Triangle from the northwest, and chances increase again Sunday, July 13, Kren said.
Heavy downpours of 1 inch to 2 inches of rain could cause flash floods, particularly in areas that have received substantial rainfall this week. But widespread flash flooding is not expected, Kren said.
Heat indices in the lower 100s could be measured in parts of the Triangle, with the lower rain chances Friday and Saturday.
When will the rain stop?
A 30%-50% chance of scattered showers and storms is in the Triangle’s weather forecast for Monday, July 14, until Wednesday, July 16, Kren said.
Driving through floodwaters
Communities across central North Carolina have experienced flash flooding this week, following the remnants of Tropical Storm Chantal and additional storms, which brought heavy rain to the region.
Drivers are encouraged to follow the National Weather Service’s advice and “turn around, don’t drown.”
Even if floodwaters covering a road don’t appear to be deep or moving quickly, they are hazardous. Floodwater can stall vehicles or carry them away, and drivers should not attempt to cross that water or go around barricades.
