Severe Storms Cause Havoc Across North Carolina Roads

RALEIGH, N.C. — Intense rain and strong winds wreaked havoc on roads across North Carolina on Sunday, prompting a WRAL Weather Alert Day. The deluge led to considerable travel disruptions in Wake County as standing water accumulated on major thoroughfares, particularly on Capital Boulevard near Old Louisburg Road.

The flooding was exacerbated by a flash flood warning issued for the area, with several streets like Atlantic Avenue and Millbrook Road experiencing significant ponding. State officials warned residents to exercise caution, as additional rainfall was expected throughout the night.

In Cary, emergency responders were dispatched to two separate car accidents on Sunday evening, both attributed to hazardous road conditions. The first incident occurred on US-64 where a Honda Civic collided with a Toyota Camry. The collision sent the Camry crashing into a median and guard rail, but fortunately, all parties involved sustained no serious injuries. The second accident involved a Ford Fusion rear-ending a Toyota Corolla amid stop-and-go traffic on US-1.

In Durham, authorities responded to another incident on I-85 when a vehicle struck another near Mile Marker 178 at approximately 12:05 p.m. Again, no injuries were reported; hydroplaning was noted as a primary cause of the accidents.

Tragically, while no injuries were reported from the crashes, two children lost their lives when a tree fell onto their home in Transylvania County, underscoring the dangers posed by the severe weather.

The National Weather Service warned that scattered showers would continue into the evening, with wind gusts expected between 30-40 mph. Thunderstorms could produce heavy downpours, resulting in localized flooding in flood-prone areas. Motorists were advised to take extra caution during Monday’s morning commute due to slick road conditions.

Forecasts for the upcoming days indicate persistent rain and wind. Monday, coinciding with St. Patrick’s Day, is expected to feature moderate rainfall through the morning hours, with a high around 56 degrees.

Weather forecasters are monitoring broader storm patterns affecting much of the southeastern U.S., which have the potential to lead to more severe weather. Authorities recommend that residents remain vigilant and prepared for possible evacuations should weather conditions worsen.