SOUTHEAST — A soaking, heavy rain is on the way to the Southeast late this week as a fall cold front meets a surge of Pacific tropical moisture. Blending the latest forecast models, at least 1 inch of rain is expected on the low end, with 2 to 4 inches possible across many areas if the current setup holds. Some locations, including parts of Alabama, Tennessee, and the Gulf Coast, could see more than 5 inches, roughly 150 to 250 percent of normal rainfall over the next seven days.
Fall Front Meets Tropical Moisture
The setup for this rain event features a fall cold front sliding into the Southeast just as a surge of tropical moisture from the Pacific streams in. That moisture is tied in part to the remnants of recent Eastern Pacific hurricanes.
When the moisture meets the front, it creates ideal conditions for widespread, steady rain and embedded downpours. The result could be one of the wettest stretches the region has seen in some time.
Timing Remains the Biggest Question
The biggest uncertainty right now is timing. Some forecast guidance brings the first rain in as early as late Friday, while other models hold off the steadier, heavier rain until Saturday and Sunday.
That difference could affect weekend plans, including football games, festivals, and outdoor events. Forecasters will continue fine-tuning the timing as the event gets closer.
Atlanta and Nashville Among the Wettest Cities
Atlanta is projected to see about 4.52 inches, one of the highest totals among major cities. Nashville is forecast near 3.99 inches, while New Orleans could pick up about 3.74 inches…