Asheville, NC — The Southern Appalachians are under a rare high-risk alert for excessive rainfall beginning Thursday, with widespread flash flooding and landslides expected. The National Weather Service warns that areas across the southern mountain regions could see as much as 10 inches of rain over the next 48 hours.
This deluge of rain, coupled with already saturated ground, is expected to trigger flash floods, particularly in low-lying and urban areas, while the steep slopes of the Appalachians are at risk of dangerous landslides. Communities from western North Carolina to northern Georgia are advised to stay alert, as rapidly rising waters could overwhelm roads and homes.
According to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center, heavy rainfall will begin late Thursday and intensify into Friday, creating hazardous conditions for travel and outdoor activities. The greatest risks will be along rivers, valleys, and hilly terrain, where landslides may block roads and isolate neighborhoods.
Local officials urge residents to prepare now by monitoring weather alerts, securing their property, and avoiding travel through flood-prone areas. Drivers are reminded never to attempt crossing flooded roadways, as even a few inches of moving water can be deadly.
Stay weather-aware and have multiple ways of receiving emergency notifications during the storm.
