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Flash Flood Watch/Flood Advisory

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga counties in effect until midnight EST tonight.

A vast area of rain with embedded heavier showers will continue progressing eastward across the region in advance of an approaching cold front. One inch of rain is likely within the watch area, with localized two-inch amount possible.

EST Doppler Radar indicated heavy rain that will cause small stream and creek flooding this afternoon and evening.

As of 3:50 p.m., up to one inch of rain had fallen on saturated ground. An additional inch is likely through the remainder of the afternoon. An NWS flood advisory for Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga counties is in effect until 9:30 p.m. EST.

Locations that will experience flooding include: Todd, Jefferson, Mouth of Wilson, Lansing, West Jefferson, Fleetwood and Piney Creek.

Thunder Storm Warning

A sever thunderstorm watch is in effect until 10 p.m. EST for the following counties: Alleghany, Ashe, Caswell, Rockingham, Stoked, Surry, Watauga, Wilkes and Yadkin.

High Winds

The NWS issued a high wind warning for Ashe and Watauga counties in effect until midnight EST tonight.

Strong south winds will increase this morning in advance of an intense cold front. Winds will be the strongest ahead of the front between noon and midnight, and especially in heavier bands of showers.

Affected areas will see very strong and damaging south wind speeds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, with downed trees and power lines likely. Winds will taper off as the front moves east after sunset.

Sustained winds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph are likely to cause sporadic power outages, fallen trees, minor property damage, and dangerous driving conditions for high profile vehicles. Residents should move unfastened items, such as garbage cans and deck furniture, indoors.

The public is encouraged to report estimated wind gusts or wind damage to the National Weather Service via email at rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling (866) 215-4324.