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Strong Winds Set to Hit North and South Carolina

Residents of North Carolina face strong winds as a wind advisory is issued.

News Summary

Residents of North and South Carolina should brace for strong winds as the National Weather Service issues a wind advisory. Southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph are expected today, particularly affecting coastal and inland areas. Additionally, another advisory for the mountainous regions has been issued, predicting gusts that could reach 55 mph. Safety precautions are advised as the winds may knock over unsecured objects and make driving hazardous.

Strong Winds Set to Hit North and South Carolina

If you’re in North or South Carolina, you might want to hold onto your hats—quite literally! The National Weather Service has rolled out a wind advisory for several counties today, warning folks about some seriously blustery conditions expected to sweep through the area.

Timing is Everything

The advisory went into effect early this morning, around 3:09 a.m. on January 6, 2025, and is set to last until 6 p.m. tonight. Those living along the coast and inland areas should remain alert, as strong gusts of wind are forecasted to make things a bit chaotic.

Areas Affected in North Carolina

For our friends in North Carolina, the advisory affects:

Coastal Brunswick
Coastal New Hanover
Coastal Pender
Inland Brunswick
Inland New Hanover
Inland Pender counties

South Carolina Locations

And it’s not just the Tar Heel State that’s feeling the winds. In South Carolina, residents in:

Central Horry
Coastal Georgetown
Coastal Horry
Inland Georgetown

are also under the advisory. So if you’re planning on heading out, it’s a good idea to stay aware of the conditions.

What to Expect

Brace for southwest winds blowing at about 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching as high as 45 mph. Yes, you read that right! The NWS has cautioned that these strong gusts could knock over unsecured objects—think patio furniture, trash cans, and even some tree limbs that might cause minor havoc.

Driving Alert!

Driving may become a bit tricky too, especially for those in larger vehicles or big rigs. Strong winds can create dangerous conditions, so it’s best to exercise extra caution while navigating the roads today. Make sure your car’s windows are up, and be wary of any debris that might blow your way!

More Winds on the Horizon

But wait, there’s more! Just a little while later at 3:45 a.m. on the same day, a second wind advisory was issued for the mountainous regions of North Carolina. This one is effective from 3 p.m. today until 6 a.m. tomorrow. The areas impacted include:

Caldwell Mountains
Burke Mountains
McDowell Mountains
Rutherford Mountains
Avery, Madison, Yancey, Mitchell, Buncombe, and Henderson counties

Hold Onto Your Hats—More Wind Expected

This second round of winds may be even more fierce, with northwest winds hitting a similar range of 20 to 30 mph but with gusts that could reach a whopping 55 mph! To add an extra chilly layer, temperatures in higher elevations might drop to a wind chill of 0 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit as the sun sets tonight. So if you’re planning to venture up those trails, make sure you’re bundled up!

Stay Safe and Stay Informed

As this weather develops, keep those eyes peeled and remain tuned to local updates. The winds, while blustery, can bring down tree limbs and cause power outages, so it’s best to prepare for the unexpected. Remember to secure any outdoor items and drive carefully. Your safety is the number one priority!