Okay, Eastern North Carolina, it looks like we’ve got some serious weather heading our way this Friday. Get ready for strong thunderstorms, gusty winds, and heavy rain. If you’re in Greenville, New Bern, or Wilmington, you’ll want to keep an eye on things because this isn’t the kind of weather to take lightly.
What’s Coming:
-
Thunderstorms Are Rolling In: Friday afternoon looks like the peak time for thunderstorms. These storms will bring heavy rain and gusty winds, and we may even see hail in a few spots. If you’ve got plans to be outside, now’s the time to make a backup plan because it won’t take long for things to get pretty stormy. These aren’t just your regular summer showers – we’re talking some serious weather here.
-
Wind Gusts Up to 60 MPH: One of the big concerns is the wind. We could see gusts as strong as 60 MPH. That’s strong enough to cause damage, bring down trees, and knock out power. If you don’t need to be outside, it’s a good idea to stay inside and wait it out. The winds could make it really tricky to drive too, so don’t take chances if you don’t have to be on the road.
-
Flooding Risk: Along with all that rain, there’s a chance for flash flooding. If you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, or if you know certain roads near you flood easily, now’s the time to be especially cautious. Flooding can happen really fast, and it’s best to stay ahead of it. You don’t want to get stuck in flooded roads, so keep an eye on the weather if you need to drive anywhere.
How to Stay Safe:
-
Get Ready for Power Outages: With those high winds, power outages are a real possibility. Make sure you have flashlights, extra batteries, and a charged phone in case the power goes out. It’s also a good idea to have a portable charger handy and stock up on water, snacks, and anything else you might need if you lose power for a while.
-
Bring In Outdoor Items: If you’ve got outdoor furniture, grills, or anything else that could get blown away, it’s time to secure those things. The wind can turn everyday objects into dangerous projectiles, so take a few minutes to bring them inside or tie them down.
-
Stay Indoors During the Storm: Once the storm hits, the safest place to be is inside. Don’t risk it – stay indoors while the worst of the weather passes through. If you do need to be outside, keep in mind that the wind and rain can make it dangerous. Keep an eye on the weather, and avoid driving if you don’t have to. If you’re already out, watch out for flooded roads and fallen trees.
-
Stay Updated on Weather Alerts: Make sure you’ve got a way to stay up to date with any changes to the forecast. You can use a weather app or listen to local weather alerts. If you have a weather radio, make sure the batteries are fresh and ready to go. And don’t forget to keep your phone charged so you can stay in the loop about any important updates.
How to Protect Yourself During the Storm:
-
Avoid Windows and Doors: If you’re indoors when the storm hits, stay away from windows and doors. Strong winds and flying debris can shatter glass, and you don’t want to be in the line of fire. If you can, take cover in an interior room that doesn’t have windows.
-
Be Careful on the Road (Or Stay Off It): If you need to drive, take it slow. High winds, slick roads, and reduced visibility can make it hard to stay in control of your car. If the storm gets worse, it might be safer to pull over and wait it out. Flooded roads are another concern – never attempt to drive through standing water. If you don’t know how deep it is, it’s not worth the risk.
-
Flooding: If you live in a flood-prone area, now is the time to prepare. Make sure you know the best escape routes to higher ground if things start to get dicey. Stay alert to any flood warnings, and be ready to act quickly if water levels start to rise.
What to Expect on Friday:
Friday afternoon is when the storm will really start to pick up, so that’s when you’ll need to be the most cautious. Thunderstorms, 60 MPH winds, and the potential for flash flooding mean that you’ll want to stay prepared and stay safe. Secure your outdoor items, make sure you’ve got your emergency kit ready, and keep an eye on the weather so you can adjust your plans as needed.
With heavy rain, gusty winds, and flooding on the horizon, it’s important to take this storm seriously. Be sure to prepare ahead of time by charging your phone, bringing in outdoor items, and staying indoors during the worst of the weather. And keep an eye on the latest weather updates as things progress.
