Imelda, which recently intensified to a Hurricane, is now expected to impact the Charlotte region with gusty winds and heavy rain later this week — though the storm is no longer expected to make landfall in the Carolinas.
While Imelda has shifted course toward the open Atlantic, the outer bands of the storm are dragging a stream of tropical moisture across the Southeast, prompting weather advisories from Florida to North Carolina.
Rainfall and Flooding Outlook
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1 to 3 inches of rain are possible across the southern coast of North Carolina through Wednesday.
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Charlotte could experience up to an inch, with no major flooding expected — though isolated nuisance flooding in low-lying spots remains possible.
Wind and Coastal Impacts
Winds will begin picking up Monday, with gusts reaching 25 mph through Tuesday. While the storm’s core will remain offshore, rip currents, rough surf, and minor beach erosion are concerns along the Carolina coast. No storm surge warnings have been issued.
Forecast Improves by Midweek
By Wednesday, both Imelda and nearby Hurricane Humberto are expected to track east and out to sea. Skies will begin clearing, with temperatures returning to the 70s during the day and 50s overnight — just in time for a busy local weekend.
Weekend Weather Looks Favorable
The extended forecast looks mostly clear and comfortable heading into the weekend — good news for fans attending the Roval NASCAR race or the Carolina Panthers home game. However, models suggest a slight chance of showers Sunday afternoon, so weather watchers should stay alert.
