A severe thunderstorm warning from the National Weather Service in Blacksburg rolled across Wilkes and Yadkin counties Wednesday afternoon, bringing the threat of damaging straight-line winds and quick downpours to parts of the Foothills. Radar showed storms near Windy Gap, about nine miles southeast of Wilkesboro, tracking east at a steady clip. Officials urged residents to head indoors and warned drivers to be ready for standing water and sudden drops in visibility on local roads.
Where and when
The NWS issued the warning at 3:45 p.m. and said it would remain in effect until 4:15 p.m. Forecasters described a storm capable of gusts up to 60 mph and moving east at roughly 25 mph, according to the Raleigh News & Observer.
What the NWS advised
In its bulletin the National Weather Service in Blacksburg urged people to "prepare immediately for damaging winds" and to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, well away from windows. The warning also noted that locally heavy rain could quickly reduce visibility, cause ponding on roadways and lead to minor flooding in low-lying spots, per the National Weather Service in Blacksburg.
Lightning and road safety
Lightning remains a separate threat. Around 25 million strikes occur nationally each year and the NWS notes those strikes lead to about 20 fatalities annually. The Raleigh News & Observer also summarized guidance to wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading back outside, and reminded drivers that hydroplaning can occur when water builds faster than a tire can push it away. Easing off the accelerator and gently steering into a skid can help drivers regain control.
Local impacts
Local broadcasters and spotters reported large hail in the Windy Gap area along with early reports of downed trees and power lines as the line pushed through. WXII-12 captured video of the hail and cited viewer reports of 60 mph gusts and quarter-sized hail as the squall moved through, according to WXII 12.
If you are in or traveling through Wilkes or Yadkin counties this evening, it is wise to postpone nonessential trips until conditions improve and to keep vehicles off flooded roadways. For the latest warnings and live radar, follow the National Weather Service in Blacksburg and local broadcasters.
