Could central NC get tornadoes Friday? Read the latest on Tropical Depression Nicole
The state is closely watching Tropical Depression Nicole as it moves through the Carolinas on Friday morning.
Showers and thunderstorms east of the Triad area and entering the Triangle will bring strong gusty winds, heavy rain and threats of isolated tornado, according to the National Weather Service.
More than 2,000 residents in Holly Springs and parts of the Triangle had lost power as of 10 a.m. Friday, according to Duke Energy.
Raleigh, Wake Forest and Garner were under a special weather advisory until 10:45 a.m. with a threat of winds up to 50 mph.
A special weather warning was also issued for Clayton, Archer Lodge and Wilson’s Mills until 10:45 a.m.
The Weather Service said Tropical Depression Nicole, which was once a hurricane, will continue to weaken as it moves further inland and will become post-tropical today a when it comes into contact with an approaching cold front.
Tornado watches and warnings
A tornado watch remains in effect in Eastern and Central North Carolina until 3 p.m., the Weather Service said.
Until 10:15 a.m. Friday, a tornado warning was issued for Durham, Butner, Rougemont and Gorman, the Weather Service said.
A watch is issued when there is significant risk of hazardous or severe weather but the location or timing of the weather is uncertain.
When tornado warnings are issued, the dangerous weather is actively occurring or likely to occur.
isolated tornadoes will remain a threat to the region until 2 p.m. with pockets of intense wind damage in the areas south and east of the Triangle.
The Weather Service predicts another round of severe storms for tonight through midnight.
Heavy rains and wind in Central NC
Rain is in the forecast through midnight in Central North Carolina with the heaviest rainfall expected in the Triad including Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem. About 1 to 1.5 inches of rain is expected across the entire area, the National Weather Service said.
Minor flooding is also possible in poor drainage areas and spots that collect water in heavy downpours.
Wind gust will be up to 20 to 30 mph with a few isolated gusts of 40-45 mph during thunderstorms late in the day.
We will update this story as new information becomes available.
This story was originally published November 11, 2022 at 8:47 AM.