A flood warning is in effect for Johnston County as the Neuse River at Smithfield approaches minor flood stage. Officials warn the riverwalk and low-lying areas could see water and urge caution.

At Raleigh’s Bill Dooley Pigskin Preview, college coaches pressed the ACC and NCAA for firmer enforcement after high‑profile quarterback moves, legal fights and tampering claims. The debate centered on late portal entries and who polices them.

At the July 20 meeting commissioners pledged roughly $4.5M toward a remote ‘digital’ tower at Johnston Regional, advanced a new DSS design and set public hearings. The board also approved budget moves and honored a WWII veteran.

Tony Michael Crisco, 35, was ordered to serve 50 years in federal prison after prosecutors say investigators found hundreds of images and videos of child sexual abuse. He also faces separate state prison time after a recent plea.

A blaze tore through an auto shop in the 2700 block of Hillsborough Road on July 22; crews found flames in multiple bays and the cause remains under investigation.

A flood watch covers parts of southeast North Carolina through Friday as forecasters warn repetitive heavy downpours could trigger flash flooding.

NCDEQ has pushed Helene recovery funding past $1 billion; Burnsville will get state grants and loans to rebuild its drinking-water intake and sewer lines.

Federal investigators have opened a Title VI inquiry into East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine, joining a broader federal review of med‑school admissions. The probe will examine whether admissions used unlawful racial criteria.

Recent rain nudged Falls Lake up about 1%, but the reservoir is still roughly 66% full and Raleigh remains under Stage 1 watering restrictions. Enforcement of irrigation rules has intensified.

A mosquito batch trapped in Ajax tested positive for West Nile virus — the first in Durham Region this season. Officials urge repellent, long sleeves and removing standing water.

A severe thunderstorm warning swept through Edgecombe and Wilson counties on Monday, bringing quarter‑size hail and 60 mph gusts. Officials urged shelter and warned motorists along NC‑264.

A federal review step advanced plans for passenger rail between Fayetteville and Raleigh, moving the 62‑mile corridor into formal planning while funding and safety questions remain.

Highs near 94°F and heat index near 103°F Tuesday; storms likely Wednesday night with localized heavy rain possible.