Greenville, N.C. – Strong thunderstorms could bring damaging winds and isolated hail across eastern North Carolina from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, threatening evening travel and outdoor plans.
According to the National Weather Service in Morehead City, a line of severe storms is expected to sweep west to east through the region late Friday. Greenville and Kinston may see impacts as early as 5 p.m., with areas like Morehead City and Columbia affected by 6 p.m., and coastal towns including Rodanthe and Frisco facing the threat between 7 and 11 p.m.
The primary concern is wind gusts of up to 60 mph, with a 10-25% likelihood of damage. A secondary risk includes hail (5-15% chance), and forecasters note a very low probability (under 5%) of a brief, weak tornado forming along the storm line.
Residents in New Bern, Jacksonville, and the Outer Banks should avoid outdoor activity during these hours. Stay indoors, away from windows, and ensure mobile alerts are enabled. If shelter isn’t nearby, seek safety in a vehicle.
The severe threat should taper off overnight, but additional advisories could be issued if the storm line intensifies. Warnings remain in effect across all of eastern North Carolina through tonight.
