FIRST ALERT: Extreme Weather Conditions Continue, with Flash Flood Watch in Pee Dee

FIRST ALERT: Extreme Weather Conditions Continue, with Flash Flood Watch in Pee Dee

Current Conditions

Residents in Pee Dee brace themselves as locally heavy rain and isolated flash flooding continue to pose a risk across regions, with the heightened risk of excessive rain. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect for regions including Robeson, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, and Marlboro Counties. This is anticipated to last until later in the evening with chances of extending to Thursday night.

Recent heavy rains have led to saturated soils across the identified regions. Further rainfall expected towards the evening, and again on Thursday and Thursday night, is anticipated to escalate flash flooding risks. Areas surrounding rivers, creeks, streams, and other typically vulnerable low-lying and flood-prone locations are warned of potential excessive runoff that might lead to flooding.

Thursday and Friday Forecast

Over the coming days, a steady influx of tropical moisture is projected to result in locally heavy rain and thunderstorms. Though inland areas bear the brunt of the flooding risk, all regions may encounter heavy rainfall. Showers and storms risk throughout the day, peaking in the morning nearer to the beaches before shifting inland during afternoon and evening hours. The accompanying rains are expected to be locally heavy and accompanied by frequent lightning.

Thanks to the predominantly overcast conditions, temperatures will remain relatively low ranging in the lower to middle 80s. Average rainfall is expected to span between 1 to 3 inches across most regions. However, localities subjected to recurrent heavy storms might record significantly higher amounts, with isolated amounts possibly exceeding 4 inches.

Weekend Outlook

As the weekend approaches, a weak cold front is anticipated to move through the region on Saturday bringing occasional showers, particularly during the early hours. As the front progresses southward, drier air is expected to usher in, reducing the chances of rain. Saturday’s rain probability drops to 30%, with afternoon temperatures soaring to the middle to upper 80s.

Continuing the trend, Sunday is expected to see lower humidity with a further reduction in rain chances to just 20%. Temperature patterns remain consistent, with predictions pointing towards another day in the middle to upper 80s.

As severe weather conditions continue to affect residents and their daily routines, the need for appropriate precautions cannot be overstated. Regularly updated weather information and advice can go a long way in mitigating potential damages and ensuring the safety of all.

What to Look Out for

Communities are urged to keep abreast of the weather updates, heed official warnings, and implement safety measures wherever necessary to mitigate risk. Particular attention is required around low-lying and flood-prone areas, where the potential for flooding is highly possible. Special care should also be taken during morning and early evening hours when the possibility for heavy flooding is greater.

Given the heightened risk of flooding, it is critical that residents familiarise themselves with the appropriate flood safety measures such as evacuation procedures, knowing the nearest safe high ground and having the necessary emergency supplies on hand.

Conclusion

The flash flood watch combined with the ongoing risks of heavy rain and isolated twisters serve as a reminder of the diverse weather challenges that regional residents might encounter. Updating individual and community preparedness will prove vital in these times, ensuring safety and a quick recovery in times of extreme weather conditions.