FIRST ALERT: Tropical System Brings Heavy Rain & Gusty Winds to the Area
Residents are urged to exercise caution as a tropical system set to strengthen into Tropical Storm Helene brings heavy rain and gusty winds to the vicinity. The National Hurricane Center began issuing advisories on this Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight on Sunday afternoon, predicting it to intensify throughout Monday.
Monday’s Outlook
The week will commence on a subdued note, with an overcast sky expected. Notwithstanding, the likelihood of showers will increase as the day prolongs into the night, signaling the impending arrival of the tropical system.
FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY Tuesday
Issuing a FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY for Tuesday, experts indicate that heavy rain might result in localized flash flooding. Accumulated rainfall between 1-3 inches is a strong probability in numerous locales, with higher totals especially prevalent along and east of the Blue Ridge. Flash flooding could become an issue as consistent rainfall is predicted to persist until midweek.
The area south of U.S. 460 could experience notably gusty winds, particularly from Monday evening through early Tuesday morning. The tropical system’s approach may cause continual clusters of heavy rain to manifest late Monday into Tuesday.
Timeline of Impact
The following is a potential timeline of the tropical system’s impact:
- Monday Morning: Increasing clouds with dry conditions.
- Monday Afternoon & Evening: South-to-north rainfall development. Wind gusts of 20-30 mph are possible.
- Tuesday Morning: Periods of heavy rainfall likely. Wind gusts of 25-35 mph are possible.
- Tuesday Afternoon & Evening: Occasional showers. Pockets of tropical downpours possible. Wind gusts of 15-25 mph are possible.
In the wake of the tropical system, moisture is anticipated to linger over the Mid-Atlantic region, potentially generating scattered showers and storms from Wednesday through Saturday.
Hurricane Peak
The hurricane season reached its peak last week. The latest Drought Monitor, issued on Thursday morning, suggests moderate drought conditions along either side of the I-81 corridor. The Southside area appears to be on the cusp of becoming abnormally dry once more.
People are encouraged to download weather alert applications on their handheld devices for the latest weather updates and emergencies. Share personal experiences and videos from this weather event to help others keep up-to-date and increase awareness about its severity.
