Severe Thunderstorms Trigger Flash Flooding in North Carolina
Heavy rain, hail, and wind batter central NC counties
Severe thunderstorms rolled through central North Carolina on Thursday, May 29, 2025, prompting multiple flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings across several counties. Though the warnings have since expired, the National Weather Service (NWS) cautioned that the effects of these storms could linger into the weekend.
Counties Impacted by Flash Flood Warnings
NWS Raleigh issued a series of flash flood warnings beginning at 5:38 p.m., affecting southwestern Johnston County, southeastern Harnett County, northern Cumberland County, and northwestern Sampson County. Towns impacted included Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, Dunn, Spring Lake, Erwin, and Benson.
Later in the evening, at 8:37 p.m., additional warnings were issued for northern Durham County, Orange County, central Granville County, southeastern Person County, and central Vance County. The warning covered cities like Durham, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, Henderson, and Oxford.
These warnings were triggered by thunderstorms dropping up to 2.5 inches of rain, with some areas receiving even more. The warnings expired between 8:45 p.m. and 11:45 p.m., but forecasters warned that floodwaters could take time to recede.
Storm Conditions and Hazards
The NWS described the storms as producing 60 mph winds and quarter- to ping-pong-ball-sized hail, especially in counties like Moore, Harnett, and Lee. These conditions were capable of damaging roofs, windows, trees, and power lines.
Lightning, intense rainfall, and poor drainage areas combined to create dangerous travel conditions. In addition to flash flooding, the storms led to hydroplaning risks and reduced visibility on highways and local roads.
Driving in Flood Conditions: Safety First
The National Weather Service issued several crucial warnings and safety tips during the severe weather outbreak:
- “Turn around, don’t drown” – Avoid flooded roadways, as just 12 inches of moving water can carry away a vehicle.
- Use headlights during rain to increase visibility.
- Drive in middle lanes to avoid water pooling at the road edges.
- Avoid puddles and large vehicles that can splash water and impair visibility.
- Maintain safe tire tread depth to prevent hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle loses contact with the road surface due to a thin layer of water, causing drivers to lose control. To recover from hydroplaning, drivers should ease off the accelerator, steer into the skid, and gently brake if necessary.
Preparedness Tips During Flood Warnings
Residents were urged to follow flood safety protocols:
- Move to higher ground if in a flood-prone or low-lying area.
- Evacuate when instructed and lock your home before leaving.
- Disconnect utilities and appliances if time permits.
- Avoid basements or submerged electrical outlets.
- Call 911 if trapped by water or in danger.
The NWS emphasized that most flood-related deaths happen in vehicles, urging drivers to be cautious and remain informed during active weather conditions.
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