Raleigh, N.C. – Flash flooding could threaten large swaths of central and eastern North Carolina today as the remnants of Tropical Storm Chantal bring waves of heavy rain from the Triad to the Coastal Plain.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Flood Watch is in effect from 6 a.m. Sunday through 6 a.m. Monday for more than two dozen counties, including Wake, Durham, Guilford, Cumberland, and Wayne. Rain totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected, with localized amounts exceeding 4 inches—especially west of U.S. Highway 1 in areas like Sanford, Southern Pines, and Greensboro.
Urban flooding and rapidly rising creeks may affect major roadways including I-40, U.S. 1, and I-85. The risk of flash flooding is elevated in poor-drainage zones and low-lying areas, especially during the heaviest rain bands this afternoon and evening. Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roads and to monitor local alerts.
Eastern counties including Brunswick, Columbus, and Horry are also under a flood watch through Sunday evening, as heavy tropical downpours continue along the coast.
The rain will taper off by early Monday, but additional watches or warnings could be issued if storm bands stall overnight.