A tornado watch issued for central North Carolina on Friday, September 27, 2024, turned into a tornado warning for parts of the region, including Durham, Wake and surrounding counties, prompting the activation of emergency sirens and advising residents to seek shelter.
While the watch was in effect, Duke officials advised students, faculty and staff to be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
However, the situation escalated when the National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for Southern Orange County in central North Carolina and Northeastern Chatham County in central North Carolina until 1100 AM EDT.
At 1034 AM EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Pittsboro, moving north at 45 mph.
This dangerous storm was expected to be near Chapel Hill and Carrboro around 1040 AM EDT.
Other locations impacted by this tornadic thunderstorm included Efland, Fearrington, Bynum, and Jordan Lake.
At around 10:30 a.m., the University issued an Alert Carolina and activated the emergency sirens because of a tornado warning in the area. The University issued the all-clear around 11:03 a.m. A few minutes after, they issued another tornado warning until 11:30 a.m. At around 11:30 a.m., they issued another all-clear.
According to the National Weather Service which issued the warning, a tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or that radar indicates a thunderstorm circulation that could cause a tornado.
UNC Media Relations said in an email statement that all activity and instruction on campus should stop until there is an all clear, and that operational changes will be confirmed after that.
The statement also said that everyone on campus should shelter in place, follow Alert Carolina instructions and check the Alert Carolina website for updates.
The events in central North Carolina illustrate the importance of staying informed during severe weather events. The National Weather Service provides important alerts and warnings, and local authorities often issue their own advisories.
In the event of a tornado warning, it is crucial to seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building, avoiding windows and protecting yourself from flying debris.
It's also important to stay informed about the latest developments by monitoring local media and following official sources for updates.
By taking these precautions, individuals can help ensure their safety and minimize the risk of injury during severe weather events.
Staying Safe During a Tornado Watch
The National Weather Service recommends that individuals take the following steps during a tornado watch:
- Be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions.
- Listen for later statements and possible warnings.
- Have a plan in place for where to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued.
Preparing for Tornadoes
In addition to staying informed during a tornado watch, it's essential to have a plan in place for how to respond to a tornado warning. This plan should include:
- Identifying a safe shelter in your home.
- Knowing where to go if you are outdoors.
- Having a communication plan with family and friends.
Tornado Safety Tips
Here are some additional tips for staying safe during a tornado:
- Go to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
- Avoid windows.
- If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
Conclusion: Being Prepared is Key
While it's impossible to predict when or where a tornado will strike, being prepared can make a difference in staying safe. By staying informed, having a plan in place, and knowing how to respond to a warning, individuals can minimize the risk of injury and damage during a tornado. Remember, being prepared is key to ensuring your safety during severe weather events.
