NORTH CAROLINA — Rainfall forecasts for western North Carolina and the Upstate of South Carolina are trending higher as moisture from Isaias moves into the region. High-resolution models increasingly show a corridor of 4 to 8 inches of rain, with isolated amounts approaching 10 inches possible. The heaviest rain is expected along the southern and eastern-facing slopes of the mountains. Flash flooding and isolated landslides are growing concerns, especially in areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene.
Pockets of 5 to 8 Inches Along the Blue Ridge Escarpment
The heaviest rainfall is focused along the Blue Ridge Escarpment, where moisture will be forced upward by the mountains. Pockets of 5 to 8 inches or more are shown from the South Carolina border north toward Boone.
Boone is forecast to receive about 5.09 inches, while Hendersonville could see around 4.08 inches. Isolated spots along the escarpment may approach 10 inches if heavy rain persists.
Upstate South Carolina Also Faces Heavy Rain
Heavy rain will extend into the Upstate of South Carolina and northeast Georgia. Greenville is forecast to receive about 3.74 inches, while Greenwood could see around 3.65 inches.
Spartanburg is forecast near 3.10 inches, Anderson around 2.66 inches, and Toccoa, Georgia, near 3.26 inches. Elberton, Georgia, could see about 3.03 inches.
Lower Totals West of the Mountains
Areas on the western side of the mountains are expected to see much less rain due to a rain shadow effect. Asheville and Waynesville are forecast near 1.61 inches each…