ROANOKE RAPIDS — Remnants of Tropical Storm Ida have begun dumping rain on the Roanoke Valley. Unfortunately the forecasters at the National Weather Service (NWS) say rain, heavy at times, will continue into Thursday evening.

Jacqueline Hough | The Daily Herald It was a wet and dreary start to the day on Roanoke Avenue Wednesday morning courtesy of Tropical Storm Ida. It will be much of the same for the next few days. Advertisement

In response to the rainfall, the Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for Halifax County through Thursday evening, meaning conditions exist for flash flooding through the area. Northampton County is under a flood watch through Friday morning, meaning potential for flooding exists based on forecasts.

Both counties expect four to seven inches of rain through Thursday; some areas could see even more rain. Conditions such as these may lead to flooding in urban areas and along creeks; falling leaves this time of year complicate matters by clogging storm drains and leading to additional flooding issues.

The NWS urges caution when driving in flooded areas and around potential flood areas, indicating on their Web site most deaths in flash floods occur in cars. They advise abandoning your car immediately if your vehicle stalls in water and to never drive into areas where water covers the road. The Weather Service also urges citizens to monitor forecasts and be prepared to take action if the flood watches become warnings.

A wind advisory for Halifax County complicates conditions further. The advisory, which expires at 6 a.m. Friday, means winds of 35 mph can be expected with this storm system. Such winds could blow over trees and poles due to the saturated ground failing to hold them in place. Wind may also complicate driving, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks and SUVs. The NWS advises drivers to also be alert for branches and other debris in roadways.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has issued advice on their Web site for motorists to be aware of possible flood conditions. NCDOT tells motorists to turn around and do not try to drive through flooded areas should they encounter roadways covered in water.

Motorists should also be advised rain slickens roads. With wind, water and visibility issues, all Valley residents are urged to be especially cautious while driving.