Raleigh, N.C. – Tropical Storm Chantal is dumping up to 4 inches of rain across central North Carolina Sunday, with flooding already a concern in Rockingham and Asheboro. Rainfall bands are intensifying this afternoon and could trigger flash flooding in urban and low-lying areas through early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, the storm’s center is lifting north through the Piedmont region with rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches expected from Sanford to Greensboro, and localized amounts over 4 inches possible. The heaviest rain is falling west of Raleigh and Fayetteville, where soils are quickly saturating.
A Flash Flood Risk remains elevated across Alamance, Randolph, Chatham, and Moore counties. Rockingham is already approaching 3 inches, and travel delays are likely on U.S. 220 and I-73. An isolated tornado or two can’t be ruled out this evening in Southern Pines, Rocky Mount, and east of Raleigh.
Winds will gust 20 to 30 mph, with stronger bursts near Clinton and Goldsboro, especially near open fields or overpasses. Coastal beaches remain dangerous, with life-threatening rip currents from Emerald Isle to Hatteras.
The risk for flooding and severe weather continues overnight. Stay off flooded roads, charge devices, and monitor updates as Chantal weakens into Monday.
