GREENVILLE, S.C. BRACES FOR HEAVY RAIN, FLOODING, AND POTENTIAL SEVERE WEATHER

Forecast Highlights:

Greenville, South Carolina, and its surrounding areas are bracing for a barrage of heavy rain, flooding, and possible severe weather conditions in the coming days. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flood watch for portions of the region, warning of potential inundation along the Blue Ridge Escarpment until Saturday night. Additional rounds of heavy rain are anticipated on Saturday evening, exacerbating the risk of flooding. While the severe weather threat is relatively low, isolated thunderstorms could bring damaging winds and even isolated weak tornadoes. Drier and cooler conditions are expected for Sunday and the upcoming week, with snow showers predicted for the mountains.

Detailed Forecast:

Saturday:

The steadier rain is expected to subside, but scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely to persist through the first half of the night. Flooding concerns are elevated, particularly for rivers, creeks, and streams already swollen from previous rainfall. A flood watch is in effect for areas near the North Carolina-South Carolina-Georgia border. Anticipated rainfall accumulation could reach 0.5 to 2 inches, further saturating the ground and exacerbating the flooding risk. A low risk of severe weather exists during the evening due to an approaching cold front. Damaging winds and isolated weak tornadoes are possible, prompting the NWS to urge residents to remain vigilant and heed weather app alerts.

Sunday:

The frontal system is forecast to exit the area, bringing drier conditions to the Upstate. A mix of sun and clouds is expected, with gusty winds reaching up to 30 mph. Temperatures will be cooler, with highs in the 50s.

Mountains:

The mountains are expected to experience scattered snow showers on Sunday and Sunday night. Temperatures will drop behind the system, leading to highs in the 40s. Snowfall totals are predicted to range from trace amounts in the valley to several inches in higher elevations. Slick road conditions are anticipated on Sunday and Monday, and the NWS has issued a winter weather advisory for Madison County and winter storm warnings for Haywood and Swain counties from noon Sunday to noon Monday.

Upcoming Week:

Drier and sunnier weather conditions are expected for the upcoming week. The region is likely to return to typical late January and early February weather patterns, with highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s.

Safety Precautions:

In light of the anticipated heavy rain and potential flooding, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and minimize damage to property:

– Monitor weather forecasts and heed warnings and advisories issued by the NWS.
– Avoid driving through flooded roadways. Even a few inches of water can cause vehicles to stall.
– If you must travel, slow down and be prepared for hazardous conditions.
– Keep flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio on hand in case of power outages.
– Stay informed by listening to local news broadcasts or following reputable weather apps.
– Have an evacuation plan in place and be prepared to move to higher ground if necessary.

Conclusion:

Greenville, South Carolina, and the surrounding areas are facing the prospect of heavy rain, flooding, and potential severe weather in the coming days. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions, stay informed, and heed the instructions of local authorities. By working together, the community can navigate these challenging weather conditions safely and effectively.