Severe Weather Alert: Heavy Rain and Flooding in North Carolina and Virginia
The WXII 12 First Warning Weather Team is closely monitoring the situation as heavy rain continues to move through the mountains and foothills of North Carolina and Virginia. Several inches of rain have already fallen, prompting flood advisories in Western North Carolina and Virginia.
A FLOOD WATCH is in effect for multiple counties until 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 27, including Alleghany, Ashe, Carroll, Grayson, Patrick, Surry (N.C.), Watauga, and Wilkes. The surge of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and a steady flow of Atlantic moisture from the North Carolina coast is expected to bring a risk for heavy rainfall through early Wednesday.
The period of steady, rainy weather will include a chance for thunderstorms, and residents are urged to check weather alerts and radar on their WXII12 News App before traveling. Runoff from heavy rain is causing creeks and streams to swell, leading to isolated flooding, especially in poor drainage and urban areas. Drivers are cautioned to be aware of the potential for ponding on roadways in low spots and to heed flood warnings.
The intense moisture transport from the south, combined with an upper-level low pressure system and convergence of small storms higher overhead, is enhancing the risk for torrential downpours and challenging travel conditions. The timing of the heavy rainfall is expected to continue into Wednesday morning before winding down as the weather system moves away from the area.
Rainfall totals are expected to reach two to four inches in the mountains and foothills, with one to two inches expected in the Piedmont Triad. Residents are advised to monitor river levels and rainfall totals using local resources and the WXII12 Radar and National Weather Service platforms.
The community is urged to stay informed and take precautions to stay safe during this severe weather event.