Wilmington, NC – Coastal communities across the Carolinas are bracing for heavy rain and possible flooding this week as Tropical Storm Imelda pushes moisture into the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, most of the rainfall will arrive Monday through Tuesday night, with average totals of 2 to 4 inches expected along the coast. Inland areas could see between 0.5 and 2 inches of rain.
Forecasters noted that localized higher amounts are possible, with a one-in-ten chance of some coastal areas receiving as much as 6 inches. This raises the potential for flooding in low-lying and urban areas near the shoreline.
While Tropical Storm Imelda is expected to stay well offshore, officials say residents along the coast—from Georgetown, SC through Wilmington, NC and into southeastern North Carolina—should prepare for periods of moderate to heavy rain and watch for possible flash flooding.
The heaviest rainfall is forecast for Georgetown, Myrtle Beach, and Wilmington, with rainfall totals gradually decreasing farther inland toward Florence, Dillon, and Lumberton. Drivers are urged to use caution, as water ponding on roads may cause travel delays through midweek.
Localized flooding is most likely near coastal towns, including Surf City, Carolina Beach, and Oak Island, especially during high tide cycles. The Weather Service emphasized that impacts are expected to be limited but cautioned residents to remain alert for changing conditions.
