Flood warning in effect for eastern counties, 2 to 4 more inches of rain likely

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Heavy rain and flooding conditions are expected to worsen Thursday from the Triangle northeast, according to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner.

More than 6 inches of rain have fallen in the Rocky Mount area since Wednesday, with as much as 2 inches falling in the Triangle. On Thursday, heavy rain will continue to drop another 2 to 4 inches across the area.

A flood warning has been issued for several eastern counties, including Edgecombe, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Wayne and Wilson, until 10:30 a.m. A flood advisory is in effect for Wake County until 9:45 a.m., meaning flooding is very likely as downpours continue throughout the morning commute. See all alerts.

In the Triangle, weather-related crashes were reported on U.S. Interstate 1 near Ten Ten Road in Apex and on Interstate 440 near Glenwood Avenue. East of the Triangle, cars were getting stuck in floodwaters and major routes like U.S. Highway 301 were blocked in spots.

While rain is expected to be heaviest northeast of Raleigh, the Triangle is also at risk for flash flooding and road closures.

“We’re especially worried about folks around the Interstate 95 corridor,” Gardner said. “We could see flooding anywhere but that’s going to be where it’s most likely.”

Gardner said the rain will be heaviest Thursday morning, throughout lunchtime and for most of the afternoon, with conditions improving by 5 p.m.

There was a small lull in the rain Thursday morning, but Gardner said another large band of rain is expected to be problematic through the late morning and early afternoon.

There’s also a risk for severe weather afternoon, when gusty winds and isolated tornadoes are possible.

Level 1 risk for severe weather Thursday

Crashes are likely to be numerous throughout the Triangle for the Thursday commute as drivers navigate wet roads.

Pay attention to flooded streets and closed roads and do not try to drive around barricades.

“Do not drive your car into floodwaters,” Gardner said. “Avoid them at all costs.”

Cooler, drier weather ahead

Cooler temperatures and drier conditions are ahead for Friday and the weekend.

7-Day Forecast

There could be a few showers left over Friday morning, but the day will be dry overall. Fall weather will return Saturday and Sunday, which will be sunny and much cooler, with highs in the mid to upper 60s.