Tropical Depression Chantel brought heavy rain and flash flooding to Alamance County, North Carolina, leading to the temporary closure of Interstate 85/40. The storm prompted a state of emergency due to significant flooding and dangerous travel conditions. The westbound lanes of I-40/I-85 have since reopened, alleviating some traffic congestion in the area.
The storm's impact was severe, with residents reporting unprecedented flooding along Lang Street in Haw River. Some were unable to access their homes due to the high water levels. The National Weather Service plans to survey Alamance and Orange counties for potential tornado damage.
Elsewhere, the storm caused substantial damage in Chapel Hill, where extreme flooding affected businesses and homes. Sixty-three people were forced from their homes, and cleanup efforts are expected to be extensive. The Haw River reached its second-highest level on record, with rainfall totals between four and eight inches in less than 12 hours, according to WRAL meteorologist Chris Michaels.
Photo: National Weather Service