Strong Thunderstorms Strike Parts of North Carolina and Virginia: NWS Issues Safety Alert
Blacksburg, VA – June 19, 2025 — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a strong thunderstorm alert for Alleghany, Surry, Wilkes, and Yadkin counties in North Carolina and Virginia, effective until 1:45 p.m. Thursday afternoon.
At 1:08 p.m., Doppler radar detected a cluster of strong thunderstorms moving southeast at 30 mph, stretching from Ennice to Maple Springs. The storms are expected to bring pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts up to 40 mph, potentially knocking down tree limbs and blowing around unsecured objects.
Areas Impacted by the Storm:
- North Wilkesboro
- Wilkesboro
- Elkin
- Fairview
- Yadkinville
- Jonesville
- Sparta
Residents in these areas are urged to seek shelter indoors immediately, especially if caught outdoors.
Lightning Safety Tips from the National Weather Service
Lightning strikes the U.S. about 25 million times per year, primarily during summer months. Around 20 deaths annually are attributed to lightning. Here’s how to stay safe:
If Outdoors:
- Plan an escape to a safe indoor location.
- If you hear thunder, immediately seek shelter.
- Avoid:
- Open fields, hilltops, or ridge lines.
- Tall, isolated trees or metal objects.
- Water or wet surfaces.
- In forests, stay close to low tree clusters.
- In groups, spread out to minimize the chance of lightning traveling through multiple people.
If Indoors:
- Stay away from:
- Corded phones
- Electrical appliances
- Plumbing
- Windows and doors
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back outside.
Rain Safety: Driving in Storm Conditions
Stormy conditions on the road? Here are crucial driving safety tips:
General Tips:
- Turn on your headlights, even during the day.
- Stay in middle lanes and avoid the road edges, where water tends to collect.
- Avoid puddles and standing water to prevent hydroplaning.
- Do not follow large vehicles closely—spray can reduce visibility.
- Never drive through flooded roads—flash floods can carry cars away or damage vehicle systems.
What is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water prevents a vehicle’s tires from making contact with the road, causing a loss of control.
Causes include:
- High speed on wet roads
- Deep water accumulation
- Worn tire tread
If you hydroplane:
- Ease off the gas—don’t brake suddenly.
- Steer into the skid to help tires regain grip.
- Brake gently if needed (use anti-lock brakes normally; pump brakes for older models).
Stay Informed and Prepared
For ongoing storm updates, download the NWS or local weather app, and monitor alerts via radio, TV, or weather websites.
Source: National Weather Service (NWS)
