Severe Flooding and Thunderstorm Warnings in North Carolina

A scene of flooding in North Carolina with storm clouds above

News Summary

Severe flooding and numerous thunderstorm warnings are plaguing North Carolina and nearby areas due to heavy rainfall. The National Weather Service warns of potential flash flooding as additional rain is forecasted. Residents are advised to evacuate to higher ground and remain aware of rapidly moving waters. Travel disruptions are reported, particularly on Interstate 40. Meanwhile, local humanitarian organizations like BeLoved Asheville are mobilizing aid for flood-affected regions, including Central Texas, in response to a broader disaster relief effort.

Asheville, North Carolina – Severe flooding and thunderstorm warnings are impacting North Carolina and the surrounding areas due to heavy torrential rains that have persisted over the last few days. Rainfall has measured between 3 to 4 inches in some regions in the last 24 hours, with forecasts indicating an additional 2 to 4 inches may occur over the coming days, raising concerns for isolated flooding and flash flooding.

On Friday, July 11, numerous severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for North Carolina, affecting counties such as Henderson, Polk, and Rutherford. In South Carolina, areas including Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, and Greenwood also saw similar warnings. Additionally, a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Hart County, Georgia, until 7:30 PM on the same day.

Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant regarding the weather conditions and to prepare to evacuate to higher ground in the event of flash flood warnings. The National Weather Service has emphasized the dangers posed by rapidly moving water, advising caution to those near flooded areas.

In light of the severe weather, transportation officials have reported significant disruptions. Interstate 40 near the North Carolina-Tennessee state line has faced closures due to flash flooding and landslides. Travelers are being advised to use alternate routes via I-81 and I-26 to avoid substantial delays.

Local humanitarian efforts are also mobilizing in response to the ongoing crisis. The nonprofit organization BeLoved Asheville is taking action, having dispatched five truckloads of supplies to Central Texas since Sunday. This assistance comes on the heels of catastrophic flooding that has left many communities in Texas devastated, with at least 120 confirmed deaths and 173 individuals reported missing. Volunteers from North Carolina are traveling over 20 hours to provide essential supplies and support to those in need.

In addition to current disaster relief efforts, local groups are continuing to assist survivors from previous disasters, including Hurricane Helene, which struck in September 2024. These organizations seek to address the immediate needs of disaster survivors who often face delays in receiving federal aid. Their assistance is vital in helping victims recover from the multifaceted challenges posed by natural disasters.

The combination of adverse weather conditions and community action highlights the ongoing impact of severe weather in the region. The National Weather Service’s warnings about flash flooding are a critical reminder of the potential dangers as skies remain volatile. With the expectation of continued rainfall through the weekend, authorities and residents alike are preparing for further complications from the weather, reinforcing the need for awareness and readiness in the face of these natural challenges.