Scattered thunderstorms dumped heavy rain across parts of Richmond County on Sunday night, triggering a flood advisory that remained in effect through 10:30 p.m. The National Weather Service warned of ponding on roads and minor flooding along small streams in low lying neighborhoods, while local officials urged residents in vulnerable areas to head for higher ground and skip any trips that were not absolutely necessary as showers kept moving through the region.
What the advisory says
The advisory, issued late Sunday, warned that "Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected," and stayed in effect until 10:30 p.m. for Richmond County, according to the Raleigh News & Observer. The alert highlights the risk of minor flooding in low lying and poor drainage areas and repeats the familiar but still crucial instruction to "turn around, don't drown." Officials also underscored that most flood related deaths happen in vehicles, a pointed reminder of the danger of driving through standing water.
Where flooding is most likely
Low lying streets, underpasses and poorly drained neighborhoods are the main concern, the National Weather Service said. Brief bursts of heavy rain can quickly overwhelm storm drains and small streams, leading to water rising faster than many people expect. The NWS cautioned that "even 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet" and that "most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water." Drivers are being urged to steer clear of flooded roads and follow instructions from local emergency officials.
How to stay safe
Residents in flood prone areas are advised to move to higher ground, avoid walking or driving through floodwater and follow any evacuation orders from local authorities, per the Raleigh News & Observer. If you come across a flooded road, the guidance is simple: turn around and find another route. If you become trapped by rising water, get to the highest point you can and call 911. The News & Observer roundup also notes that people should avoid basements and other submerged rooms and, when time allows, disconnect utilities before evacuating.
What to watch next
Forecasters on the NWS Raleigh page said scattered heavy showers could redevelop across central North Carolina in the coming days, which means additional short lived flood advisories are possible as storms move back across the region, according to NWS Raleigh. Local emergency management will continue to update residents on any road closures or shelter options, and we will post new information as it becomes available.
