Monday: Severe storm threat continues across Eastern North Carolina
The National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City warned Monday that severe thunderstorms remain a threat across Eastern North Carolina on March 16, with forecasters calling it a potentially significant severe weather event.
The agency said an enhanced risk, or Level 3 out of 5, is in place for severe storms across the area, with a moderate risk, or Level 4 out of 5, farther west. Damaging winds are the primary concern, though forecasters also warned of a few tornadoes, including the possibility of strong tornadoes rated EF2 or higher.
South winds are also expected to increase this afternoon into early evening, with gusts of 45 to 50 mph possible under an expanded wind advisory.
According to the briefing, the tornado threat is expected to be highest from noon to 5 p.m., while the wind threat could continue from noon to 10 p.m. Wind gusts in excess of 70 mph are possible in stronger storms.
The briefing issued Monday morning was expected to be the final update from the National Weather Service unless significant changes occur.
