Dense Fog Advisory Possible as Thunderstorms Move Through Eastern NC
Dense fog with visibility dropping to one quarter mile prompts weather service to monitor for advisory while thunderstorms dump heavy rain across southeastern NC.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement early Saturday morning warning of patchy fog with visibility dropping to one quarter mile or less across portions of central North Carolina, while thunderstorms producing heavy rain moved through southeastern regions of the state.
The weather service’s Raleigh office issued the fog advisory at 4:50 a.m. EDT on May 24, noting that areas of patchy fog had developed overnight. Officials said they are monitoring conditions for a potential Dense Fog Advisory for portions of the forecast area.
“If traveling, be prepared for the possibility of rapidly changing visibilities,” according to the weather service statement. “If you encounter dense fog this morning, turn on your low beam lights and increase your driving distance.”
Thunderstorms Bring Heavy Rain to Southeast
The National Weather Service office in Wakefield, Virginia, reported thunderstorms producing heavy rain were moving north at 15 mph through southeastern North Carolina on Friday evening. At 4:52 p.m. EDT on May 23, radar indicated the storms were located along a line extending from near Morgans Corner to near Ryland.
The storms brought rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches in less than an hour and wind gusts up to 30 mph. Locations impacted included Elizabeth City, Camden, Gatesville, Sunbury, South Mills, Ryland, Tyner, Morgans Corner, Hobbsville, Belvidere, Pasquotank, Gliden, Horseshoe, Pierceville, Arrowhead Beach, Peach, Parkville, Tar Corner, Nicanor, and Sharon.
Safety Warnings Issued
Weather officials advised residents in affected areas to seek shelter inside buildings if outdoors during the thunderstorms. The heavy rainfall also raised concerns about localized flooding in low-lying areas.
“Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways,” the weather service warned in its Friday evening advisory.
Visibility conditions from the Saturday morning fog are expected to improve by mid-morning, according to forecasters. The weather service continues to monitor conditions across the region for any changes that might warrant additional advisories or warnings.
