News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued extended Flash Flood Watches for eastern North Carolina due to severe weather conditions and a series of thunderstorms expected. Residents should prepare for possible flooding as warm and humid temperatures are forecasted alongside heavy rainfall. In addition, the state is mourning tragic incidents including the death of a wild stallion and a firefighter. Meanwhile, a trial concerning racial gerrymandering has started, adding to the region’s pressing issues amidst the severe weather alerts.
New Bern, North Carolina – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued extended Flash Flood Watches for parts of eastern North Carolina amidst ongoing flooding risks due to severe weather conditions. Residents are being urged to prepare for potential flooding as a series of thunderstorms is expected to roll in, starting Tuesday afternoon after 1 p.m.
Tuesday’s weather forecast predicts warm and humid temperatures with afternoon highs ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s. Dew points are projected to reach the low 80s, causing the humidity to make it feel more like the mid- to upper 90s. With the forecast of locally heavy rain, the potential for flash flooding remains a significant concern across several regions.
In addition to the weather alerts, there have been several tragic incidents reported within the state. A wild stallion named Alexander, part of the critically endangered wild horse population on the Outer Banks, was struck and killed by a vehicle. The driver involved is facing a Driving While Impaired (DWI) charge. Alexander was the last offspring of his mother, drawing significant attention from wildlife advocates and the local community. The Currituck County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating this incident.
In another unfortunate event, firefighter Violet Caramella from the Riceville Volunteer Fire Department lost her life during a training accident in Montreat. Two other firefighters were injured in the incident but are expected to recover. The community is mourning the loss of Caramella, whose dedication and service were deeply respected.
Meanwhile, the weather is not the only pressing matter in North Carolina. A trial concerning the state’s redistricting has begun, with allegations of racial gerrymandering directed at GOP legislative leaders. Republican officials have defended their districting strategies as permissible partisan considerations and deny any racially motivated intentions.
As thunderstorms approach, the NWS has issued specific weather alerts for strong thunderstorms affecting Northern and Southern Craven, Jones, and Pamlico counties, effective until 8 p.m. These storms are expected to produce wind gusts reaching 50 mph and pea-sized hail. Notable locations under this alert include New Bern, Trent Woods, and River Bend.
Further updating the situation, a new weather alert for strong thunderstorms has also been issued for Iredell, Davie, Rowan, and Cabarrus counties until 11:45 p.m. This alert signifies that wind gusts could peak at 40 mph. Officials are tracking storms moving swiftly northeast from Ronda to Monroe at approximately 50 mph, intensifying the urgency for residents to remain vigilant.
It’s also important to note that lightning poses a significant threat during summer thunderstorms, striking the U.S. around 25 million times annually and resulting in approximately 20 fatalities each year. The likelihood of lightning increases as thunderstorms move in, reaching its peak when the storm is directly overhead. Residents are encouraged to take precautions during this period, including seeking shelter indoors whenever possible.
In a technological advancement related to severe weather, Google has unveiled a new AI-powered tropical cyclone model capable of predicting cyclones’ formation, track, intensity, size, and shape. This model can generate 50 potential cyclone scenarios up to 15 days in advance, marking an innovative step forward in forecasting and storm preparedness efforts.
As residents prepare for the severe weather and monitor the evolving situations, local authorities and communities are reminded to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety amidst these challenging conditions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issues for Northern Outer Banks
Severe Flooding Forces Evacuation of Westernport Elementary School
Severe Tornado Outbreak Causes Widespread Destruction Across U.S.
Severe Weather Alert: A Weekend of Storms Ahead!
Coastal Storm Wreaks Havoc in Outer Banks
Severe Weather Alert: Atmospheric River Approaching Washington
Southern California Braces for Powerful Storm
Much-Needed Rain Set to Hit Southern California
New Tropical System Approaches Caribbean and Central America, Expected to Strengthen into Tropical Storm Sara
Additional Resources
- Weather.com: Kill Devil Hills, NC
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Herald Sun: Weather News
- Google Search: North Carolina Weather
- Charlotte Observer: Weather News
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather North Carolina
- News Observer: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather and Climate
- Weather.com: Clemmons, NC
- Google News: Weather Alerts North Carolina
