Severe storms possible Friday with wind gusts over 60 mph near Elizabeth City

WITN reported that Friday has been declared a First Alert Weather Day due to the potential for severe thunderstorms in the region including areas near Elizabeth City.

Atmospheric moisture will increase as a cold front moves in from the west, creating conditions for storms with damaging straight-line wind gusts possibly exceeding 60 mph, especially along and west of Highway 17.

Areas east of Highway 17, including Elizabeth City, may see storms weaken before arrival, but heavy downpours could still reduce visibility on roads.

The threat of flash flooding is low with expected rainfall between half an inch to one inch, and the chance of tornadoes and hail is very low.

The window for severe weather will open around 10 a.m. near I-95, with the strongest storms likely between noon and 5 p.m. A weakening trend will begin around 7 p.m. as cooler air moves in.

By Saturday morning, the front will be off the coast, bringing cooler and drier conditions for the weekend with a steady north breeze helping to lower temperatures.