Flood Watch Issued for Rowan County and Much of Western North Carolina Through Thursday Evening

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Rowan County and a large portion of western and central North Carolina. The watch goes into effect at 8:00 PM Wednesday and remains in effect through Thursday evening as multiple rounds of heavy rain move across the region.

A slow-moving cold front will become the focus for repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms tonight into Thursday. While many locations can expect 1 to 2 inches of rainfall, some communities that experience multiple rounds of storms could receive up to 5 inches of rain, greatly increasing the risk for flash flooding.

Flash flooding can develop quickly, especially where thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same area. Creeks, streams, low-lying roads, and poor drainage locations are the most vulnerable. Urban areas, including communities along the Interstate 77 and Interstate 40 corridors, could also experience flooding if heavy rain falls in a short period of time.

Rowan County Included in the Flood Watch

The Flood Watch includes Rowan County, along with Davie, Iredell, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Gaston, Lincoln, Catawba, Alexander, Cleveland, and numerous counties across the North Carolina mountains and foothills.

While thunderstorms may produce gusty winds this afternoon and evening, heavy rainfall and the potential for flash flooding are expected to become the primary concern overnight into Thursday.

What a Flood Watch Means

A Flood Watch does not mean flooding is occurring. Instead, it means conditions are becoming favorable for flash flooding to develop.

If a Flash Flood Warning is issued for your location, move to higher ground immediately and never attempt to drive across flooded roadways. Just a small amount of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.

Stay Weather Aware

Residents across Rowan County and surrounding communities should closely monitor forecasts through Thursday. Keep multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially overnight when heavy rain is expected to become more widespread.

Rowan County Weather will continue providing updates throughout this event, including radar updates, rainfall reports, and any Flood or Flash Flood Warnings that may be issued.