Raleigh, N.C. – A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for much of North Carolina through midnight Thursday, with damaging winds, hail, and dangerous lightning possible across 37 counties.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 254 remains in place until 12:00 a.m. EDT Friday, covering a wide swath from the Triangle to the Outer Banks, including Wake, Durham, Guilford, Dare, and Currituck counties. Gusts could exceed 70 mph in some storms, and isolated hail up to quarter size is also possible.
Cities including Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, Greenville, and Elizabeth City are all within the watch area. Local emergency managers are urging residents to remain weather-aware, especially during the evening commute and overnight hours. Strong winds may bring down tree limbs and power lines, potentially causing outages and blocking roads.
Travelers should delay non-essential driving during storms and secure outdoor items. If you’re in a mobile home or temporary structure, have a safer shelter nearby.
The watch may be extended or upgraded if storm conditions intensify. Updates will follow from the National Weather Service and local emergency agencies.
