Goldsboro, N.C. — The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch (No. 349) for parts of central and eastern North Carolina, effective until 11:00 p.m. EDT this evening.
The watch includes 20 counties, where conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, lightning, and heavy rain. Residents are urged to remain weather-aware and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued.
Affected Counties:
- Anson
- Cumberland
- Edgecombe
- Franklin
- Halifax
- Harnett
- Hoke
- Johnston
- Lee
- Montgomery
- Moore
- Nash
- Richmond
- Sampson
- Scotland
- Stanly
- Vance
- Warren
- Wayne
- Wilson
Cities Under the Watch Include:
Fayetteville, Goldsboro, Rocky Mount, Wilson, Roanoke Rapids, Laurinburg, Southern Pines, Sanford, Smithfield, Clinton, and many others.
The storms could move quickly and intensify rapidly. The National Weather Service encourages residents in the watch area to monitor local weather alerts via NOAA Weather Radio, local media, or trusted weather apps.
Safety Tips During a Severe Thunderstorm Watch:
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- Avoid travel if possible.
- Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds.
- Charge devices and keep flashlights handy in case of power outages.
If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued for your area, take immediate action to protect yourself.
Stay updated by visiting weather.gov or following your local National Weather Service office on social media for the latest advisories.
