News

Though Isaias is expected to dump rain, flash flooding unlikely, forecasters say; city cancels farmers market

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 8, 2026

Tropical Storm Isaias could dump 2-4 inches of rain on the region Saturday and Sunday although forecasters at this time say significant flooding is unlikely.

The storm is expected to make landfall near Pensacola, Florida, Friday night and move north through the Deep South through Saturday. Excessive rainfall and localized flooding are possible over parts of the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia.

Rain is forecast to develop across the area as early as Saturday morning and continue into at least Sunday morning with the peak flooding threat Saturday night through early Sunday, the National Weather Service said.

Because of the forecast, the city called off this week's farmers market, which is held on Saturdays in the Historic Seventh Avenue District. "The good news? There are still three regular-season markets coming up this October," city spokeswoman Brandy Heatherly said.

Total rainfall is expected in the 2-4 inch range, although higher amounts on the southeast-facing slopes of the Appalachians. The weather service said it had "moderate" confidence in the forecast as of Thursday morning. "Based upon this forecast, some nuisance to minor flooding will be possible along streams and in low-lying areas, but widespread flash flooding, or moderate flooding along main stem rivers is unlikely," the NWS said. Gusty winds "could develop over the mountains Saturday, possibly resulting in scattered damage to trees and power lines."

The forecast called for good weather before and after the storm, with sunny skies and highs in the mid to upper 70s Friday and again on Monday.