Raleigh, NC – Tropical Depression Nine is expected to bring periods of rain to central North Carolina late Sunday into Tuesday, though forecasters say the risk of direct impacts along the Southeast U.S. coast has decreased.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm is forecast to strengthen while passing near the Bahamas through tonight. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect along portions of Florida’s east coast beginning Monday.
Forecasters warn that heavy rainfall will continue across eastern Cuba and the Bahamas into Tuesday, with potential flash flooding and mudslides in higher terrain. Along the U.S. coast, heavy rain across the Carolinas could produce flash and river flooding through midweek.
The National Weather Service office in Raleigh reported Sunday morning that the system’s forecast track has shifted east, curving farther away from the Southeast coast. “The chance for a landfall in the Carolinas or Southeast is decreasing,” the agency noted. However, central North Carolina can still expect a “good chance for rain late tonight through much of Tuesday.”
While the risk of damaging winds and storm surge remains low for North Carolina, residents are urged to stay alert. “There is still a risk of heavy rainfall, wind, and high surf impacts for the southeast U.S. coast even if the center remains offshore,” the National Hurricane Center cautioned.
Officials recommend monitoring updates and reviewing hurricane preparedness plans as the system develops.
