Heavy Rain Threat Increases Across the Region Through Friday

A much wetter weather pattern is taking shape across the western and central Carolinas, bringing several rounds of showers and thunderstorms through the end of the week. While scattered storms are expected this afternoon, the greatest concern will be the potential for heavy rainfall from tonight through Friday.

A slow-moving cold front is forecast to settle into the region before stalling nearby. As several disturbances move along this boundary, waves of showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop and repeatedly move across the same general areas. This setup increases the potential for locally heavy rainfall and isolated flooding.

Atmospheric moisture will be unusually high for late July, allowing thunderstorms to produce very efficient rainfall. While individual storms will continue moving, additional storms may develop and follow similar paths. This "training" effect can quickly lead to several inches of rain falling over the same location in just a few hours.

Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected across much of the region through Friday, with isolated higher amounts possible where thunderstorms repeatedly track over the same communities. Because of this uncertainty, some neighborhoods could receive considerably more rain than others located only a few miles away.

A few storms this afternoon and evening may also become strong enough to produce gusty winds. However, the primary weather concern through the end of the week will be heavy rainfall and the potential for localized flooding.

Although Rowan and Davie counties are not currently under a Flood Watch, residents should continue to monitor the forecast closely, as localized flooding can still occur outside of watch areas if heavy rain persists over one location. Davidson County is included in a Flood Watch, where confidence is higher that excessive rainfall could lead to flash flooding.

The unsettled weather pattern will also bring a noticeable break from the summer heat. After highs climb into the mid to upper 80s today, temperatures will remain in the 70s Thursday through Saturday thanks to widespread clouds and periods of rain.

The good news is that conditions should gradually improve this weekend. Rain chances will begin to decrease on Saturday before drier weather and warmer temperatures return on Sunday and continue into early next week.

Now is a good time to review your plans for the next few days, especially if you'll be traveling or spending time outdoors. Keep an eye on the latest forecast, never drive through flooded roadways, and be prepared for changing weather conditions as this active pattern unfolds.