Gardner: Bulk of rain over but flood watch remains

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— We’ll have to get through a flood watch, chilly temperatures and plenty of rain Thursday before enjoying a beautiful weekend.

Flood watch all day

A flood watch is in effect for most of the state and the entire viewing area until 7 p.m. According to meteorologist Kat Campbell, another up to 2 inches of rain is likely Thursday, which could lead to flooding along creeks, streams and rivers.

“In addition to the heavy rain early today, winds gusting up to 40 mph will be possible,” said Campbell. “With saturated grounds, we could see trees come down.”

The bulk of the rain should be over in the Triangle by about 1 p.m. Thursday, leaving the evening commute in much better shape than the morning’s.

According to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner, the rain will taper off this afternoon with just a light drizzle possible by dinnertime.

Crews perform 2 water rescues in 24 hours on flooded Sanford road

The Triangle has seen more than 2 inches of rain since Monday.

Thankfully, no water rescues were reported Thursday morning during the band of heavy rain. Flooded roads and several water rescues were reported Wednesday morning in Lee and Moore counties with conditions improving to the east.

Wintry weather in the mountains

A winter storm warning in effect for the mountains of North Carolina Thursday morning did not affect the Triangle.

According to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner, there was only a slight chance for freezing rain during the morning commute.

Current Temperatures, DMA

Beautiful weather on the way

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

“After today, we’re done with rain,” said Gardner.

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.

7-Day Forecast

Next week looks ideal too, with plenty of sunshine, drying and highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. It will feel like fall again.