Periods of heavy rain will continue for Eastern NC

What’s driving this?

A cold front has stalled essentially parked itself across our region, and it’s not in a hurry to leave. That front is acting like a magnet for deep tropical moisture being pulled in from the south. The result: round after round of heavy rain and thunderstorms, with some areas getting hit multiple times.

How much rain are we talking?

Most of Eastern NC is looking an additional 1-3 inches of rain through Friday night. But here’s where it becomes a concern: areas along the NC-24 corridor, Jacksonville, Richlands, and points north could see 4 to 6 inches. That’s enough to cause significant flooding, especially in low-lying areas and spots that are already saturated.

When will it be the worst?

The heaviest rain is expected to shift southward through the day Thursday, with the southern coastline and areas near New Bern seeing the most intense activity Thursday afternoon and evening. Friday keeps the threat alive across the entire area, with the southern coast and Onslow Bay seeing lingering storm chances into Saturday.

What about severe weather?

A few storms could become strong to severe, mainly along and north of Highway 264. The main threats are damaging wind gusts and a brief, weak tornado. The deep moisture in the atmosphere tends to favor heavy, water-loaded downpours more than classic severe weather, but don’t let your guard down.

What should you do?

Never drive through flooded roads. Even 6 inches of water can sweep a car off the road.

Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, a weather radio, the WITN app, or wireless emergency alerts on your phone.

Avoid unnecessary travel during the heaviest rain periods, especially Thursday afternoon through Friday.

Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those in flood-prone areas.

The First Alert Weather Team will be tracking every round of storms. Download the WITN First Alert Weather App for free from the Google Play Store or the App Store.