ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A Flash Flood Warning is in effect Monday morning for parts of McDowell and Rutherford counties as heavy rain continues to fall.
The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg issued the warning at 5:20 a.m. for south-central McDowell County and northwestern Rutherford County. It remains in effect until 9:15 a.m.
Emergency management reported minor flooding in the Sugar Hill community of McDowell County. Slow-moving, heavy downpours have continued since early Monday, with heavy rain also moving into northwestern Rutherford County.
Between 2 and 4 inches of rain have fallen in parts of the warned area, with another 0.5 to 2 inches possible through midmorning.
Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to develop, with small creeks and streams, roads, highways, underpasses and other low-lying areas at risk.
Flooding was reported on Montford Cove Road south of Sugar Hill. Morgan Creek and Cove Creek are particularly vulnerable to flooding this morning. Cedar Creek, Bills Creek, Youngs Creek and Piney Creek in northwestern Rutherford County also could rise quickly.
The warning includes Lake Lure, Chimney Rock Village, Chimney Rock State Park, Shingle Hollow, Sugar Hill and Fero.
The National Weather Service urged drivers to turn around rather than attempt to cross flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
Residents who encounter flooding or landslides threatening roads or property can report them to the National Weather Service at 800-267-8101 when it is safe to do so.