Raleigh, NC – Central North Carolina residents should prepare for heavy rain and potential flash flooding on Tuesday, September 16. A coastal storm system is expected to bring showers and thunderstorms to Raleigh, Wake County, and surrounding areas.
According to the National Weather Service, confidence is rising that 2 to 3 inches of rain could fall Tuesday through Wednesday. The heaviest downpours may occur over the Piedmont and Coastal Plain. Isolated flash flooding is possible, particularly in poor drainage areas and along local roadways. Drivers should use caution on major routes including I-40, I-440, and U.S. 1.
Rain chances will increase Tuesday morning with thunderstorms likely by afternoon. Periods of heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and slow traffic across the Triangle. Residents should secure outdoor items, monitor forecasts, and avoid driving through flooded roads.
The storm system is expected to push east by late Wednesday, bringing drier conditions to the region. Thursday looks mostly sunny, offering a return to more typical fall weather.
Five-Day Forecast for Raleigh and Central NC:
- Tuesday, Sept. 16: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 68. Rainfall totals up to 2–3 inches possible.
- Wednesday, Sept. 17: Chance of rain, mainly before 2 p.m. High near 72.
- Thursday, Sept. 18: Mostly sunny. High near 80.
- Friday, Sept. 19: Mostly sunny. High near 83.
- Saturday, Sept. 20: Partly sunny with highs in the mid-80s.
