A severe thunderstorm warning barreled across Rockingham County on Sunday evening, prompting emergency alerts for communities from Reidsville to Wentworth. Forecasters warned that the fast-moving line of storms could pack damaging straight-line winds, hail and enough force to bring down trees, with the potential to topple power lines and tear at roofs. Residents were urged to get indoors and take shelter as the cell pushed southeast through the county.
NWS issues updated warning
The National Weather Service office in Blacksburg issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning at 6:12 p.m., keeping it in place until 6:45 p.m., according to NWS Blacksburg. Forecasters said the storm cell was spotted near Monroeton, about seven miles south of Wentworth, and was tracking southeast at roughly 20 mph. The office urged people to "prepare immediately for DAMAGING WINDS" and cautioned that the storms could tear at roofs and siding and bring down trees.
Communities named in the warning
Locations specifically listed in the alert included Reidsville, Wentworth, Bethany, Monroeton and Haw River State Park, with residents told to brace for wind gusts up to 60 mph, according to The Charlotte Observer. Local officials and emergency channels tracked the system as the warning moved through the county.
How to stay safe
The National Weather Service advises anyone inside the warning area to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and to stay away from windows, and to report damage or life-threatening emergencies to local authorities. The agency notes that lightning hits the U.S. about 25 million times a year and is responsible for roughly 20 deaths annually, a reminder that being outdoors during summer storms is no small risk. More safety guidance is available from the National Weather Service. Drivers are urged to pull over safely and avoid flooded or debris-clogged roads until conditions improve.
