Severe weather is expected in Eastern North Carolina this Sunday evening, as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for strong thunderstorms, effective until 8 p.m. The alert covers Northampton, Hertford, Gates, and Bertie counties.
Weather Alert: Thunderstorms Forecast
According to the NWS report issued at 7:13 p.m., Doppler radar detected a series of thunderstorms moving northeast at 35 mph. The thunderstorms are projected to affect several areas, prompting residents to prepare for wind gusts that may reach up to 50 mph.
Projected Impact Areas
Strong thunderstorms are expected to hit the following locations at these approximate times:
- Garysburg, Rich Square, Gaston, Woodland, Seaboard, Roxobel, and Barley: 7:20 p.m.
- Aulander and Dahlia: 7:25 p.m.
- Emporia and Conway: 7:30 p.m.
- Ahoskie and Claresville: 7:35 p.m.
- Murfreesboro, Chowan University, and Green Plain: 7:40 p.m.
- Boykins and Cofield: 7:45 p.m.
- Winton: 7:50 p.m.
Additional areas, including Eagletown, Milwaukee, Tunis, and Kelford, may also experience storm conditions.
Safety Recommendations During Thunderstorms
The NWS advises residents to seek shelter inside buildings during thunderstorms. If you are outside, consider the following safety measures:
- Have a plan to reach a safe location if severe weather develops.
- If thunderstorms approach, avoid corded phones and electrical devices while indoors.
- Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder or flash of lightning.
In case shelter inside is not available, stay away from tall trees, open fields, and isolated structures while outdoors. Ground yourself near lower trees in forests, and never shelter in tents during storms.
Driving Precautions in Rainy Conditions
With thunderstorms come potentially hazardous driving conditions. Here are some tips to enhance road safety:
- Always turn on your headlights for better visibility.
- Avoid puddles to reduce the risk of hydroplaning.
- Give large vehicles enough space as they can obstruct visibility.
- Steer clear of flooded areas and turn around if roads are submerged.
Hydroplaning can occur when tire traction is lost on wet roads. Be vigilant about your speed, water depth, and tire tread to ensure safety. If you find yourself hydroplaning, ease off the accelerator and steer into the skid gently to regain control.
Stay safe and heed weather alerts as severe thunderstorms move through Eastern North Carolina this evening.
