Eastern North Carolina Weather Alert: Strong Storms Alert For Evening
RALEIGH, N.C. — Residents across eastern North Carolina are being urged to take precautions as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an updated thunderstorm alert Thursday evening for several counties. The storms bring the potential for damaging winds, heavy rain, and dangerous lightning.
Counties Under Alert
The alert, issued at 7:55 p.m. Thursday, is in effect until 8:45 p.m. and includes Nash, Edgecombe, Johnston, Wilson, and Wayne counties. Forecasters said Doppler radar detected a line of strong storms stretching from Elm City to near Fremont to six miles south of Smithfield, moving east at about 25 mph.
Winds could reach gusts up to 50 miles per hour, capable of knocking down tree limbs and blowing around unsecured outdoor items. Towns in the storm’s path include Rocky Mount, Goldsboro, Tarboro, Wilson, Smithfield, Benson, Elm City, Fremont, Micro, and Selma.
Lightning Safety
Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning has been reported with these storms, and the NWS warns that strikes can occur up to 10 miles away from the storm center. Residents outdoors are urged to seek shelter inside a sturdy building or vehicle.
The NWS advises:
- Move indoors as soon as thunder is heard.
- Avoid contact with electrical equipment, plumbing, windows, and doors while inside.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning or thunder before going back outside.
Driving Risks During Heavy Rain
Officials also reminded drivers that wet roads can quickly turn dangerous. Hydroplaning is a serious risk during downpours, especially at high speeds. To stay safe:
- Slow down and maintain extra distance from other vehicles.
- Stick to middle lanes and avoid puddles.
- Never attempt to drive through flooded roads, as flash floods can sweep vehicles away.
If hydroplaning occurs, drivers are urged to ease off the accelerator, turn into the skid, and allow tires to regain traction before braking gently.
Residents Advised to Stay Alert
While the storms are expected to move east quickly, forecasters emphasize continued vigilance as conditions may change. The combination of high winds, heavy rainfall, and lightning makes outdoor activity risky until the storms clear the area.
Have you experienced damage or outages from tonight’s storms in Nash, Edgecombe, or nearby counties? Share your updates and experiences in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
