Storm alert! If you’re heading out near Raleigh or Durham this Friday, you might want to keep your eyes on the sky and both hands on the wheel. A powerful line of thunderstorms is expected to sweep through central North Carolina during the afternoon, possibly leading to travel delays, wet roads, and dangerous conditions on the busy I-40 corridor.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Severe Weather Watch for the region, highlighting the risk of strong storms, heavy rain, gusty winds, and possible lightning strikes from early afternoon into the evening hours.
What to Expect From This Storm System
The weather system is part of a larger front moving across the Southeast, and North Carolina is right in its path. The main concerns for Friday afternoon include:
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Heavy downpours that could cause quick flooding on roads
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Wind gusts up to 40 mph that may make driving risky
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Frequent lightning and possibly small hail in isolated areas
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Reduced visibility during peak rainfall periods
Forecasters say the storms could start popping up after 1 PM, with the strongest activity between 3 PM and 7 PM — right during the Friday rush hour.
Areas Most Affected: I-40 Near Raleigh and Durham
I-40 is one of the busiest highways in North Carolina, and it runs straight through the Triangle region, connecting cities like Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
During severe weather, this stretch often sees traffic slowdowns, accidents, and even temporary closures if conditions worsen. With so many commuters, even minor disruptions can cause major backups.
If you’re planning to travel along I-40, it’s smart to leave earlier than usual, check real-time traffic apps, and avoid driving during peak storm hours if possible.
Why This Storm Matters
While thunderstorms may seem common, the combination of intense rain, wind, and high traffic volume makes this one worth watching closely. Many accidents happen when drivers underestimate the power of a quick-moving storm, especially during rush hour.
Flash flooding, slick roads, and falling tree limbs are all possible risks. Pedestrians and cyclists should also be cautious, especially near intersections with poor drainage.
Simple Safety Tips for Drivers
To stay safe on the roads this Friday, here are a few tips:
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Slow down and increase your following distance
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Turn on headlights even in the daytime when it’s raining
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Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on wet roads
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Don’t drive through flooded areas — just 6 inches of water can stall a car
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Pull over safely if visibility drops or lightning strikes nearby
Timeline to Watch
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:
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1 PM – 3 PM: Storms begin developing
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3 PM – 7 PM: Peak storm activity, heaviest rain and wind
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After 8 PM: Storms begin to clear, though roads may stay wet
Conditions may change fast, so keep checking your local weather station or radar apps for live updates.
Final Word for Triangle Residents
This isn’t a day to ignore the forecast. With strong storms likely on Friday afternoon, anyone driving on I-40 near Raleigh or Durham should be extra cautious. Delaying travel, working from home, or taking side roads could help avoid delays and dangers.
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