Residents of western North Carolina remain on alert as they continue to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, with a new storm system threatening flash flooding in the area. This weather pattern is bringing heavy rain and thunderstorms to communities throughout the Southeast and mid-Atlantic.
The FOX Forecast Center has highlighted that this storm system is the same one that previously brought severe weather to the Gulf Coast, including tornadoes and waterspouts. As it moves into the Tennessee Valley, it continues to produce significant rainfall, particularly in regions with warm, moisture-heavy air ahead of an approaching cold front.
The forecast indicates that moisture is being funneled into two main areas: one along the Southeast coast and another over the southern Appalachians. Duke Energy is actively monitoring conditions, especially around the 11 lakes of the Catawba River, and has begun opening spillway gates as a precaution due to unpredictable rainfall amounts.
In South Carolina, the National Weather Service reported that parts of the state were impacted by a high-end EF-1 tornado early Monday morning. The tornado, which touched down in Langley at approximately 3:30 a.m., was about 250 yards wide and had winds reaching 105 mph. It caused damage to numerous homes, uprooted trees, and destroyed various structures, including outbuildings.
As weather conditions remain volatile, residents in low-lying areas are advised to take necessary precautions. While the threat posed by the ongoing storm is serious, efforts by energy companies and emergency services to manage the situation proactively showcase the community’s resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.