Wilmington, N.C. – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected across portions of southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina this afternoon through late evening, with damaging winds posing the primary threat.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a humid air mass and an approaching disturbance from the west are triggering storm development in the region. The greatest risk will be in areas such as Wilmington, Myrtle Beach, and Lumberton, where gusts may exceed 60 mph.
Residents in counties including Horry, Brunswick, and Columbus should stay alert for downed trees, power outages, and sudden hazardous driving conditions. Emergency officials urge drivers to slow down during heavy rain and to avoid flooded roads. Power companies recommend charging mobile devices and preparing for possible outages.
This is a “slight risk” event on the Storm Prediction Center’s scale, meaning scattered severe storms are possible. Winds remain the main concern, though isolated hail or brief tornadoes can’t be ruled out.
Storm activity may persist into late evening, with conditions improving overnight. Further weather updates and warnings may follow if the system intensifies.
