1pm EDT Update on Flooding Threat

There will be catastrophic flooding from this system, according the the National Weather Service, in the area outlined in red, below.

Please follow local warnings, including evacuation orders. 

As of 1pm Eastern, Helene finally has a well-defined eye which means that strengthening continues to occur. The large size of the hurricane = heavier than usual rainfall for a storm of this nature. 

As of noon Eastern time, heavy rains have already fallen during the previous 24 hours. 

Let's zoom in a bit to the area with the greatest threat. 

In Atlanta, 2-3 inches have already fallen. In the highlands to the northeast, as much as eight inches have fallen already. 

Here is a forecast of additional rainfall from now until noon tomorrow (Friday). 

As much as 14.4 inches of rain during this 24 hour period in the mountains. That would bring the total for the 48 hour period to 22 inches but even more will fall.

Already one South Carolina lake is overflowing as it will reach its highest level, ever. 

Final note: power will be out in many areas. Please make sure you have a battery-powered way of getting storm warnings and other information.