An unusually persistent upper-level trough parked over the southeastern United States is expected to keep rain chances elevated through at least April 25. The pattern has already delivered above-average rainfall to much of Georgia, the Carolinas, and Florida over the past two weeks, and models show little sign of a significant pattern change in the near term.
Atlanta has recorded 6.3 inches of rain so far this month, nearly double the normal April total. Flash flooding has been reported in several low-lying areas, and the National Weather Service has issued flood watches for portions of the southern Appalachians where soils are saturated.
The wet pattern is being driven by a stubborn blocking high over the western Atlantic that is preventing typical storm systems from moving through at their normal pace. Meteorologists say the setup is unusual for mid-April but not unprecedented, and drier conditions should gradually return by early May.
