CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Rain drenching the Charlotte area is forecasted to last into Wednesday.

Severe Weather Team 9 meteorologist Mark Watkins said the rain caused localized flooding in some areas early Tuesday, and more flooding could occur early Wednesday.

Watkins said the heaviest rain will likely happen between 2 and 4 a.m. Wednesday so commuters should be careful as they head to work.

Flood watches are in effect for several counties to the west, including Jefferson, Ashe, Avery, Caldwell, Burke and Watauga counties.

Watkins said some of the flood watches will remain in place until midday Wednesday.

Watkins forecasted there could be a few breaks from the rain south of Charlotte during the midday Tuesday. During the afternoon, lots of rain is on tap for areas north of Charlotte.

Some places could see up to three inches of rain total. Watkins said he does not expect any severe weather to accompany the rain, although there could be a few lightning strikes.

Wet snow could follow the rain in the mountains Wednesday night.

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