Isaias Remnants Trigger Tornadoes and Flooding in Carolinas

Remnants of Hurricane Isaias caused tornado warnings, heavy rain, flooding and power outages across North Carolina on Sunday, affecting central and western areas as emergency crews responded to severe weather threats and storm damage.

WRAL reported tornado warnings in Wake, Chatham and Durham counties, while a tornado was reported near New Hill along the Chatham-Wake County line. The National Weather Service warned of flash flooding and severe weather risks.

A tornado watch remained active for much of the Triangle area, with storms expected from around noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Isaias had weakened into a post-tropical cyclone after moving inland.

WRAL meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth warned residents in western Wake County to prepare as storms approached.

"If you're anywhere in western Wake County, if you're in Apex or west of Morrisville, get prepared to get into your safe spot," said Aimee Wilmoth, WRAL meteorologist.

North Carolina Emergency Management advised residents in western areas to monitor alerts because heavy rainfall could affect flood-prone locations. The agency said emergency teams were positioned for potential rescues.

"If you are in western North Carolina, you need to remain weather aware over the next several hours. Enable emergency alerts on your cell phone, sign up for local alerts if you have not done so, and have a plan to move to higher ground if you live in a flood prone area. Monitor local media and the National Weather Service for weather updates," said North Carolina Emergency Management.

Emergency crews were placed on standby across the state as officials prepared for possible flooding and tornado activity linked to the storm remnants.

"Our urban search and rescue teams have been placed on a state mission order in key locations Saturday, just to make sure they're ready for a quick response," said Justin Graney, North Carolina Emergency Department official.

McDowell County reported evacuations, landslides and rising river levels after heavy rain bands moved through the area. EMS Director Adrienne Jones said the county activated its Emergency Operations Center before the storm impacts arrived.

"We activated our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) yesterday morning in anticipation of the National Weather Service Forecast," said Adrienne Jones, McDowell County EMS director.

Jones described landslides in the 226 North Woodlawn community and evacuations in low-lying areas around the Catawba River. One person and their animals were taken to an emergency shelter.

"We also assisted with evacuations in low lying areas and did have to shelter one person in our emergency shelter with their animals," said Adrienne Jones, McDowell County EMS director.

The response included road closures and transportation assistance as flooding affected areas near Marion and other low-lying locations.

"Department of Transportation crews were out with us coordinating to make sure folks were safe and that we were closing any roads that needed to be closed. We did have some flooded roadways that are continuing to recede," said Adrienne Jones, McDowell County EMS director.

Jones said no injuries or deaths were reported in McDowell County despite the storm-related disruptions.

"Everyone was safe, no injuries, no deaths. We're very thankful," said Adrienne Jones, McDowell County EMS director.

Power outages also affected the Carolinas, with more than 10,000 customers without electricity Saturday according to WBTV, citing Duke Energy outage information. Crews worked to assess damage and restore service.

Duke Energy officials warned customers about hazards from storm damage and power lines during restoration efforts.

"The remnants of Hurricane Isaias are bringing heavy rain, gusty winds and power outages to some areas of the Carolinas," said Duke Energy officials.

Flood watches remained in effect in parts of western North Carolina, where forecasts called for several inches of rain and possible river flooding. The storm previously made landfall in Florida as a Category 2 hurricane before its remnants moved inland.