Heavy rain in parts of western North Carolina led to flooding and reports of water rescues overnight.
Rain led to flooding conditions Monday night, and a flash flood warning is in effect until 8:15 a.m. Tuesday for parts of Henderson County, where rain totals between 2 to 5 inches were reported.
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Late Monday night, Gerton Fire and Rescue in Henderson County, which is south of Asheville, posted:
"Please stay in. Many of the roads in our area are flooded or damaged from these storms. We are working several calls at the same time. DOT has been notified and is en route to help with the road closures. Please call 911 if you have an emergency ... Thank you for your prayers and stay safe."
There were also reports of water rescues and flooding in Chimney Rock and Bat Cave, near Lake Lure.
WYFF meteorologist Chris Justus posted a photo from Edneyville in northern Henderson County, writing, "Scenes like this come up quick from fine to flooded in one curve you’ll have no time to react. Let the water recede and the sun come up."
Hurricane Helene's deadly flooding across the state's western region in September 2024 is still top-of-mind. The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, and WRAL meteorologist Chris Michaels predicts the odds are low that a storm would develop any earlier than that.
Meteorologists are predicting a below-average season is expected with 11-14 named storms, 5-7 hurricanes, and 2-3 major hurricanes.
READ: WRAL's Atlantic hurricane season outlook
Flooding is often the deadliest part of a storm. Avoid driving through flooded areas, even if they seem shallow. Just 12 inches of water can float many vehicles, while two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and pick-ups.
