A quick peek at conditions as Helene approaches

Powerful Hurricane Helene has weakened to tropical storm strength as this is written. The center of circulation is over northern Georgia and far western South Carolina, but significant winds and rainfall amounts are being felt over a wide area. That's why it's important to NOT focus on the forecast cone. Areas impacted by a tropical cyclone's weather conditions are much bigger than the cone itself.

Another impact of these tropical systems is the potential for tornadoes. Mecklenburg county is under a tornado watch - as is all of southern Virginia - until 6:00 p.m. today (Friday):

Folks should have at least two methods for receiving weather warnings, one of which should be something OTHER than a smartphone. Cell service can be interrupted by many things, so local TV/radio or a NOAA weather radio should be close at hand. Today's storms may not be accompanied by a lot of lightning or thunder, so don't depend on those weather phenomena to provide warning.

Temperatures today will top out in the upper 70s amid up to an inch or more of additional rainfall. Easterly winds will gust up to 25 mph. Coupled with wet ground and leaves still on the trees that could lead to power outages if trees are uprooted and fall on electrical lines. Folks may want to charge those electronics this morning.

Fortunately the weekend conditions look much better. Both Saturday and Sunday look to feature sunshine and warmer temperatures with afternoon highs in the low 80s. The latter day may also have some late day showers as the remnants of Helene slowly drift eastward. But overall the weekend weather will be much calmer.