News Summary
Wilmington, NC is under severe weather alerts as the National Weather Service has warned of strong thunderstorms affecting Inland Georgetown and Williamsburg County. Residents can expect gusty winds up to 40 mph, potential lightning, and significantly increased risks if outdoors. With recent thunderstorms fresh in memory, safety is paramount as alerts include warnings for high surf and gale conditions along the coast. Authorities urge residents to stay informed and seek shelter as storms approach.
Severe Weather Alerts Issued for Wilmington Area: Brace Yourselves!
Wilmington, NC, is gearing up for some serious weather as the National Weather Service has issued a updated alert for strong thunderstorms rolling into the area. The alert, updated just this afternoon at 3:08 p.m., is primarily affecting *Inland Georgetown* and *Williamsburg County* until about 3:45 p.m. today. So, if you live in or around these regions, it’s time to take cover!
What to Expect
Residents can anticipate gusty winds that could reach up to *40 mph*—significantly enough to send tree limbs flying and turn unsecured outdoor items into projectiles! Radar has been tracking a robust storm over Earle, located roughly 19 miles southeast of Kingstree, which is hurtling southwest at approximately 35 mph. Places like *Andrews, Trio, Warsaw,* and of course, Earle, are all included in this weather threat.
If you are outdoors, the key takeaway is to find shelter inside a sturdy building. Thunderstorms are not just loud; they come packed with risks, including the potential for downed tree limbs and flying debris. The storm could bring lightning as well, and with about *25 million lightning strikes* happening in the U.S. each year, it’s best to stay informed. Remember to remain alert: the chance of lightning peaks when the storm is virtually overhead.
Safety First!
During a thunderstorm, it’s crucial to stay safe. A little tip—make sure to drive carefully, as hydroplaning can occur when water builds up faster than your car can push it out of the way. This is especially important on slick, stormy roads. So, if you’re out and about today, keep your wits about you!
Recap of Recent Severe Thunderstorm Watches
If you think this weather is anything new, think again! Just last Wednesday, Wilmington was under a severe thunderstorm watch focusing on Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender counties. That alert wrapped up by 3 p.m., but the rain and wind decided to stick around, resulting in a 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. Rainfall estimates were between half an inch to three-quarters of an inch, with the possibility of even more later in the evening.
To add a twist, wind forecasts for that day indicated a strong south wind of 24 to 29 mph, with gusts peaking up to *46 mph*. And just when you thought it couldn’t get stormier, gusts over *60 mph* were also on the table—enough to potentially cause power outages and downed trees. Not your typical summer day, right?
Coastal Warning and Advisories
For those living near the coast, be cautious! A gale warning was in effect, with coastal winds ranging from 20 to 30 knots, accompanied by gusts that could hit 40 knots. Sea swells were forecasted to reach between seven and eleven feet, creating a very turbulent ocean. Plus, a high surf advisory was active for coastal Brunswick County, featuring waves of six to nine feet—definitely *not ideal for swimming!*
What You Can Do
The National Weather Service strongly encourages everyone to stay connected for ongoing updates as these thunderstorms approach. The risks during this time include large hail, possible tornadoes, dangerous lightning, and minor flooding. So as Wilmington readies for this unpredictable weather, let’s all keep safety first and stay informed!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Hit Southeastern North Carolina
Severe Thunderstorms and Flood Warnings Hit Charleston Area
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Hitting South Carolina Counties
Myrtle Beach Residents on Alert for Thunderstorms
Marlboro County Prepares for Severe Thunderstorms
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Coastal Jasper and Beaufort County
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Savannah, Causing Funnel Clouds and Flooding
Severe Weather Hits South Carolina and Maryland
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Watch Issued for Savannah
Severe Thunderstorm Alerts in Myrtle Beach and Conway
Additional Resources
- Star News Online: Severe Storms in Wilmington
- News Observer: Weather News
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Star News Online: Severe Weather Coming to Wilmington
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
