Severe Weather Systems Move Through the Southeast, Bringing Tornado Threats
A powerful weather system that has unleashed up to 6 inches of rain across regions from Texas to Alabama since Monday is now shifting out of the Mississippi Valley and is projected to impact North Carolina on Thursday. This system, along with another incoming storm from the upper Midwest, is expected to generate severe weather conditions across the state, including the potential for tornadoes. The National Weather Service has issued hazardous weather outlooks spanning from the mountains through the Piedmont to the coast, signaling a significant weather event that could impact millions.
Impending Weather Conditions in Raleigh, Durham & Chapel Hill
Thursday is anticipated to be breezy with a south wind blowing at 15 to 23 mph, peaking with gusts up to 34 mph. The temperature is expected to hover around 72 degrees during the day, dropping to the mid-50s by night. The National Weather Service forecasts that showers could commence in central North Carolina by Thursday morning, with thunderstorms likely after noon. The heaviest rainfall is expected between noon and 5 p.m., accompanied by an increase in wind speed during the night, with sustained winds of 17 to 26 mph and gusts reaching up to 39 mph. Meteorologists are particularly concerned about the risk of straight-line winds and isolated tornadoes Thursday afternoon into the evening.
Rainfall Predictions and Flooding Risks
The total rainfall in central North Carolina from Thursday morning until around 2 a.m. Friday is expected to range from a half-inch to more than an inch, subject to the occurrence and intensity of thunderstorms. This could lead to local minor flooding, especially in areas hit by heavy thunderstorms. Residents are advised to stay alert and monitor local forecasts for updates.
Weekend Weather Outlook
The storm systems are forecasted to move off the coast by mid-day Friday, paving the way for a high-pressure system that will bring cooler, mostly drier air into the region. Despite the shift towards clearer skies, blustery conditions are expected to persist with prevailing winds of 9 mph to 17 mph and gusts up to 35 mph possible. The weekend outlook is optimistic, with sunny skies anticipated for most of Saturday.
Preparation and Safety Measures
In light of the severe weather threat, schools and communities are on high alert, with some considering early closures or dismissals to ensure the safety of students and residents. Mobile home dwellers, in particular, are advised to have an action plan in place and to monitor the latest radar trends closely. If a storm watch is issued, taking precautionary measures such as seeking safer shelter could be warranted.
The region, still reeling from a recent high wind and tornado outbreak, is bracing for another round of severe weather that could bring large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. With the weather system expected to bring sunshine and higher temperatures in the afternoon, conditions are ripe for the development of severe storms. This highlights the importance of being prepared and staying informed through reliable weather forecasting sources.