Sunday storms could slow Christmas shoppers, sadden sellers

Expected widespread, soaking rain on Sunday will likely keep shoppers at home and out of the stores. With just a week before Christmas, time is running out for businesses who hope to make their annual sales goals.

At Cary Crossroads, some shoppers told WRAL News that they were getting shopping done Saturday in anticipation of another rainy Sunday.

At Hobby Lobby, Nichole Taylor said, the lines were "incredible."

At Best Buy, sales associate Zachary Tuozzo saw crowds of customers trying to squeeze in their last chance at a discount.

"With it raining tomorrow, I mean, deals are ending I believe on the 17th. We have our deals right now," he said.

For Billy Elledge, who owns Angelhare Forest Christmas Tree Farm in Cary, that rush may still not be enough. He says fewer people have bought trees so far this year, and time is running out.

"It’s a mystery. Statewide it's the same thing to all the tree growers." he said.

Any lost day – like when severe weather hits – is a blow to business.

"I think that’s been a factor this year," Elledge said. "We lost last Sunday and we’re gonna lose tomorrow and that certainly has a factor in it."

The rain may stop some shoppers from getting out on Sunday, but Elledge will be out, ready to sell his trees so no one has to miss out on a Christmas tradition.

"It’s kinda like a used car lot," he said. "If you aren't there, you can't sell them."