Fay could bring needed rain to NC mountains

HENDERSONVILLE -- Forecasters say Tropical Storm Fay could bring much-needed rain this week to the ease drought conditions in the mountains of western North Carolina. National Weather Service meteorologist John Tomko in Greer, S.C., said the storm's track could bring several inches of rain to the mountains if it stays on its current track. Tomko said the storm was expected to be over the mountains of southwest Virginia by Friday. A tropical storm warning was issued early Monday for Florida's east coast from Jupiter Inlet to the south and along the state's west coast from Bonita Beach southward. Officials said 20.16 inches of rain recorded have been recorded at Asheville Regional Airport. The normal amount is 30.57 inches. (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)