Raleigh, North Carolina – Isolated severe storms may begin impacting central North Carolina as early as 2 p.m. Wednesday, bringing strong winds, hail, and a low tornado risk through the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, two rounds of severe weather are expected. The first wave of storms could develop through noon, with a more intense round between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. Wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to one inch in diameter are possible across much of the Piedmont and Sandhills regions.
Cities including Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, and Fayetteville are under a Level 1 severe risk, meaning isolated damaging storms are possible. Areas near Rocky Mount, Goldsboro, and Roanoke Rapids could also see brief tornado activity or power disruptions.
Residents are advised to stay weather-aware, secure loose outdoor items, and avoid travel during severe storms. While hail is expected to be minor, sudden wind gusts could down small tree limbs or cause scattered outages.
Storm threats are expected to taper off by late evening. Additional alerts could be issued if conditions intensify later today.
