Flood watch issued for Triangle ahead of impending heavy rain

By Mike Moss and Elizabeth Gardner, WRAL meteorologists

Raleigh, N.C. — You might see some sprinkles or light showers during the morning commute, but compared to Thursday, Wednesday will be mostly clear.

Most rain diminished by 9 or 10 a.m. Tuesday, but the day will stay cloudy and cool with temperatures in the 40s.

After an overcast day, persistent rain will return for Thursday. Much of the viewing area, including the Triangle, is under a flood watch starting Wednesday night through Thursday, when the rain is really expected to pick up.

“Rain chances and intensity ramp back up later tonight through midday Thursday before tapering back to patchy light rain Thursday afternoon and evening,” said Moss. “Amounts in that time frame could range from around .5 inch to 2 inches, and there could be a few intense thunderstorms toward the coast late morning into the afternoon.”

Counties south and west of Raleigh were seeing flooding Wednesday morning and were under flood warnings. Several rescues were reported.

The good news is that the weekend will be pleasant, with highs at least 10 degrees warmer than they were Wednesday and Thursday.

Friday will be sunnier with a high in the mid 50s, and Saturday and Sunday should be mild with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. Rain will not be a threat on Saturday for the Raleigh Christmas Parade and Winter Wonderland.