RALEIGH, NC — Hurricane Isaias strengthened into a major hurricane Friday morning as it approached the Gulf Coast. North Carolina will not see the center of the storm directly, but indirect impacts from Isaias and a nearby front are likely through Sunday afternoon. The storm is moving fast enough to clear out fairly quickly, and this event is not expected to be a repeat of Helene. The weekend will not be a washout, though pockets of heavy rain could cause localized flooding.
Rain Ramps Up Saturday Afternoon and Evening
Scattered to isolated showers are expected across the state Saturday morning, with plenty of breaks and dry time into the afternoon. Rain chances increase Saturday afternoon and evening, especially in the west and along the coast.
Some rain could become heavy at times Saturday evening and overnight. Hit-or-miss showers linger Sunday morning before clearing Sunday afternoon and evening, and the race in Charlotte continues trending drier.
Mountains and Foothills Could See 2 to 6 Inches
The highest rainfall totals, from 2 to 6 inches, are possible along parts of the mountains and foothills. This zone includes Boone, Todd, Sparta, Elkin, Lenoir, Marion, Hickory, Forest City, Brevard, Sylva, and Highlands.
Localized higher amounts could lead to isolated flash flooding along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Flood-prone areas in the foothills will be watched closely if heavier rain bands set up.
Central and Northern NC Expect a Half Inch to 2 Inches
Most of central and northern North Carolina is expected to see between a half inch and 2 inches of rain. This includes Charlotte, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville, and Asheville.
Little flooding is expected in these areas unless storms train over the same locations. Much of this region badly needs the rain, making the moisture mostly beneficial.
Eastern Coastal Areas Could See 2 to 4 Inches
Eastern North Carolina, including Wilmington, Jacksonville, New Bern, Greenville, Kinston, and Lumberton, could see 2 to 4 inches. The Outer Banks from Duck and Manteo to Hatteras and Ocracoke are also in this range.
A front along the coast could enhance rainfall at times, bringing bursts of heavy rain. The Weather Prediction Center highlights parts of the southeastern coastal plain for the best chance of localized flooding.
Gusty Winds and a Low-End Tornado Threat
Winds will not be a major concern, though gusts of 20 to 35 mph are possible, with up to 50 mph in the mountains. A few isolated power outages are possible in higher elevations.
With North Carolina on the right side of the storm and strong wind shear in place, a low-end tornado threat could develop in eastern and central parts of the state late Saturday night into Sunday. The threat remains fluid and is considered low overall, so residents should stay tuned for updates.
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