NORTH CAROLINA (WTVD) — Prepare for heavy rains in central North Carolina early this week.

ABC11 Meteorologist Robert Johnson said our coverage area will see heavy rain and gusty winds Monday and Tuesday, which could lead to localized flooding and power outages.

Rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches are possible in our observation area, with more in some areas. Wind gusts may reach up to 40 miles per hour.

A flood warning was issued Monday morning for several North Carolina counties, including Wake, Orange and Durham. There is also a risk of isolated tornadoes south and east of the Triangle.

Potential tropical cyclone

This comes after a tropical storm warning was issued for a section of the southeast coast on Sunday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

ABC11 meteorologists are monitoring a coastal low near South Carolina that now has Category 8 potential tropical cyclone status. This cyclone is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Helene overnight before making landfall in South Carolina Monday afternoon.

These conditions will worsen in central North Carolina on Monday.

Safety tips for bad weather

With heavy rains imminent, local officials are keeping an eye on rising water levels in lakes and rivers.

The city of Raleigh said it is monitoring the storm and lowering the water level of Crabtree Creek six to eight hours in advance to give the water time to safely drain out of the lake.

Duke Energy is expecting strong winds all week. They’re relying on the improvements they’ve made to their grid to protect people’s electricity. If the wind gets faster than 29 miles per hour, they won’t be able to raise their shovels to work on the power lines.

Here are some useful resources:
You can use the Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network to track water levels in your area and determine which areas may be affected by flooding.

You can report a power outage by calling 57801, using the Duke Energy app or their website.

outlook

Our viewing area will dry briefly on Wednesday.

Unsettled weather is possible towards the end of the week and into the weekend.

Maximum temperatures are expected to be just over 27 degrees Celsius and minimum temperatures just over 15 degrees Celsius.