The remnants of Hurricane Isaias were expected to bring heavy rain and gusty winds to the Carolinas, prompting flood watches, wind advisories, and river flood advisories across the region. The National Weather Service warned that excessive rainfall could cause flash flooding, while strong easterly winds had the potential to bring down tree limbs and power lines.
Showers and thunderstorms were anticipated through Sunday morning, with the heaviest rain occurring before 10 a.m. in the Charlotte region. Across western North Carolina, several inches of rain have already fallen, causing creeks and rivers to rise. The National Weather Service reported rainfall totals between 4.5 and 7.5 inches in parts of Ashe and Watauga counties, and 3 to 6 inches in Burke County. Localized totals along the Blue Ridge reportedly reached 8 to 10 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
Flooding was reported on roads and low-water crossings, including areas near Boone and along the Watauga River. Officials indicated that more heavy rain could worsen flooding in already saturated areas. In parts of northeast Georgia, western North Carolina, and upstate South Carolina, periods of rain intensified Saturday afternoon and continued into early Sunday morning. This continued precipitation could cause creeks and streams to rise further, flood low-water crossings, and inundate other low-lying areas. Isolated landslides were also noted as a possibility on slopes altered by construction, such as embankments and cut slopes.
Flood advisories were issued by the National Weather Service for parts of the Broad River watershed in Cleveland and Cherokee counties, where heavy rain was expected to cause river levels to rise into Monday. The river above Sandy Run Creek was forecast to crest at 13.5 feet Sunday evening, which is above its 12-foot flood stage. Near Shelby Highway, the Broad River was predicted to crest at 16.7 feet, officials said. Near Boiling Springs, the river was forecast to crest at 11.7 feet by Monday morning, exceeding its 10-foot action stage. This potential flooding could affect farmland, woodlands, low-lying roads, greenways, parks, and other areas situated near the river.
In addition to heavy rains, east winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph, were forecast for Ashe and Watauga counties, as well as parts of Virginia and West Virginia. These wind advisories were in effect through 11 a.m. Sunday, October 11. The weather service stated that these strong gusts could blow around unsecured objects, bring down tree limbs and power lines, and lead to power outages, particularly in higher elevations.
Residents are advised to exercise caution regarding potential storm impacts. If severe weather results in downed power lines, it is vital to avoid them at all costs. Duke Energy provides safety tips emphasizing the importance of staying clear of any downed lines.
