Risk for flash flooding, severe storms this week before cool weather moves in

By WRAL Weather

Raleigh, N.C. — Thunderstorms and isolated flooding are likely for the next few days before a pattern of cooler fall air sets in for the rest of the work week.

According to WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner, there is a 30% chance for rain and storms by late Monday afternoon, and highs will be in the low 80s.

On Tuesday, the viewing area is under a Level 1 threat for severe weather, with strong thunderstorms and periods of heavy rain with isolated flooding possible. Highs will be warm again, in the upper 70s.

While Tuesday will see the greatest risk for severe weather, both Tuesday and Wednesday will see a chance for flash flooding. Over the next several days, we could expect 1.5 to 2 inches of rainfall.

By Wednesday, a slow-moving cold front will give us another taste of fall weather. There is a chance for scattered storms and rain Wednesday, but highs will be in the low 70s.

The weather looks ideal for Thursday, Friday and the weekend, which will be sunny and brisk. Highs will remain in the low 70s for Thursday and Friday but will drop into the mid 60s for Saturday and Sunday.

Although elevated dew points could make the air feel steamy and summer-like again, the Climate Prediction Center’s temperature outlook for Sep. 29 through Oct. 5 shows overall below-normal temperatures for North Carolina.

There is only one area to watch in the tropics as a broad area of low pressure could form over the Caribbean Sea. It has a 20% chance of development within the next five days.