Afternoon traffic in parts of Sampson County turned into a white-knuckle ride Monday as a sudden burst of heavy thunderstorms dumped 1 to 3 inches of rain and triggered a flash flood warning. The National Weather Service said the warning, issued at 3:58 p.m., would remain in effect until 5:30 p.m. for Clinton, Roseboro, Salemburg and stretches of Highway 24, where creeks, low-lying streets and underpasses began filling fast. Residents were urged to steer clear of flooded roads and head for higher ground.
What the NWS warned
The National Weather Service office in Raleigh reported that Doppler radar was tracking "thunderstorms producing heavy rain" and that "between 1 and 3 inches of rain have fallen," with up to another inch possible, according to the Raleigh News & Observer. The bulletin warned that flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses was ongoing or expected to begin shortly, specifically flagging Clinton, Roseboro and Salemburg as locations likely to see problems.
Safety tips from the NWS
The National Weather Service flood-safety guidance leans on a simple mantra: "Turn around, don't drown." The agency notes that most flood deaths happen in vehicles and reminds people that as little as 6 inches of moving water can knock someone off their feet, while about 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles, per the National Weather Service.
Regional context and impacts
Forecasters have been cautioning that a sprawling band of storms across the Southeast could trigger similar downpours and flash-flood risks in other communities during the holiday period, according to The Washington Post. Closer to home, drivers along Highway 24 were told to be ready for standing water and possible detours until the warning expires and water levels drop.
What residents should do now
Anyone in the warned area is advised to move to higher ground and avoid driving through flooded roadways, no matter how shallow they appear. For the latest watches, warnings and updates, residents should monitor the National Weather Service Raleigh office and local emergency information channels.
