Severe thunderstorms target Bertie, Chowan and Perquimans Thursday evening
Eastern North Carolina — The National Weather Service in Wakefield, Virginia issued a severe thunderstorm alert Thursday evening for Bertie, Chowan, and Perquimans counties, warning residents to expect strong winds, heavy rain, and frequent lightning through 8:15 PM.
The warning was issued at 7:34 PM, when Doppler radar detected a strong thunderstorm system moving east over Cape Colony, about 13 miles northeast of Plymouth, at a speed of 15 mph. The storm is capable of producing gusts up to 40 mph, which could bring down tree limbs and scatter loose outdoor objects, according to the NWS.
Several communities lie in the storm’s path, including Burgess, Holiday Island, Saint Johns, Macedonia, Harvey Point, and Drummond Point.
The weather service also emphasized the threat of localized flooding, as intense rainfall continues to accompany the system. Cloud-to-ground lightning is occurring frequently, and forecasters caution that bolts can strike up to 10 miles away from the center of the storm. Residents are advised to seek shelter in a building or vehicle and avoid flooded roads.
The lightning threat: why summer storms are dangerous
Lightning remains one of the deadliest weather hazards in the U.S., with about 25 million strikes each year, most of them occurring during the summer months. According to the National Weather Service, roughly 20 people die annually from lightning strikes in the U.S. The risk increases as storms approach and is highest when they are directly overhead.
Driving through rain: what to expect on the road
Heavy rain can quickly create dangerous road conditions. Reduced visibility, standing water, and hydroplaning are among the top hazards drivers face during summer thunderstorms.
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires lose contact with the pavement and slide on a thin layer of water. This usually happens when water builds up faster than the tires can push it away, causing a sudden loss of control. Speed, water depth, and worn-out tire treads are the key contributors to hydroplaning.
Drivers who find themselves hydroplaning should ease off the accelerator and steer into the skid without slamming on the brakes. Wait until the tires regain contact with the road before straightening the wheel. Vehicles equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) should brake normally, while older models may require gentle, rhythmic braking to avoid skidding.
Storm targets key Eastern North Carolina communities
This evening’s thunderstorm rolled through a stretch of coastal and inland communities, particularly along the Albemarle Sound and near the Chowan River. Areas such as Cape Colony, Yeopim Station, and Holiday Island are among those most directly affected. While the storm is expected to move eastward and gradually weaken, residents across Eastern North Carolina are urged to stay alert until the warning expires and conditions fully stabilize.
