Wilmington, N.C. – Isolated severe thunderstorms could sweep across parts of eastern North Carolina this afternoon, bringing the threat of damaging wind gusts and small hail to areas north of NC-41.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a warm, moist air mass ahead of a cold front is creating unstable conditions that may trigger strong storms after 3 p.m. Tuesday. The primary threat includes winds capable of downing small limbs and minor hail accumulation, especially in counties such as Sampson, Duplin, and Lenoir.
Residents in Lumberton, Goldsboro, and Burgaw should stay alert as storms move through the region between late afternoon and early evening. While storms are expected to remain isolated, any that do develop could intensify quickly. The weather is forecast to clear by midnight, with no lingering overnight risk.
Drivers are urged to secure outdoor items, delay travel if possible during peak storm hours, and avoid low-lying areas prone to flash flooding. This marks one of the first spring severe weather risks for southeastern North Carolina in April.
Another update is expected if the Storm Prediction Center elevates the threat level. Marginal risk remains in effect until midnight Tuesday.
