Raleigh, NC – Millions across the Mid-Atlantic and Carolinas are under a heightened risk for severe thunderstorms Tuesday, with the National Weather Service warning that damaging wind gusts and isolated tornadoes could develop as storms move through the region.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center, the greatest threat extends from parts of Virginia southward through much of North Carolina and into South Carolina. A Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather covers a broad portion of the region, while surrounding areas remain under a Marginal Risk.
Forecasters say damaging straight-line winds will be the primary hazard. The Storm Prediction Center’s outlook shows a 30% probability of severe wind across portions of eastern Virginia and much of central and eastern North Carolina, with a broader 15% wind risk extending into neighboring states.
In addition to strong winds, the environment will support isolated tornadoes, particularly from central Virginia into North Carolina. The tornado outlook indicates a 2% to 5% probability across much of the risk area, with the highest chances centered over portions of Virginia and northeastern North Carolina.
Storms are expected to intensify through the afternoon and evening before pushing offshore overnight. Residents should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, scattered power outages, downed trees, and localized flash flooding where heavy rainfall occurs.
The National Weather Service encourages everyone in the threat area to monitor forecasts throughout the day, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and move indoors immediately if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning or Tornado Warning is issued.
The severe weather outlook remains valid through 7 a.m. EDT Wednesday, though forecast details may be updated as conditions evolve.
