Tornadoes Damage North Carolina Communities During Severe Storms

Tornadoes and severe storms struck parts of North Carolina on Sunday, causing damage in eastern and central areas, triggering emergency responses, and leading to rescues as heavy rain increased flooding risks across the state.

The National Weather Service reported tornado warnings across eastern North Carolina counties, including Duplin, Jones, Lenoir, Craven, Pitt and Beaufort counties. A confirmed tornado near Fort Barnwell moved northeast at 35 mph around 3:12 p.m.

Wallace police reported storm damage along U.S. 117 North near Teachey Road, where downed power lines forced a road closure. Earlier storms also prompted warnings near Chinquapin, about 10 miles northeast of Wallace.

In western North Carolina, Burke County emergency officials said floodwaters from the Catawba River trapped two unhoused campers and their dog before rescuers reached them. A woman trapped in floodwaters near Morganton was also freed.

McDowell County emergency officials reported five landslides and voluntary evacuations after flooded roads and overflowing streams affected the area. Rainfall totals at local stations reached as high as 9.57 inches over 24 hours.

"Despite a challenging night, we are thankful to report no known injuries or loss of life. We call that a success!" said the McDowell County Emergency Management Agency.

The agency reported conditions after overnight storm responses in the county west of Burke County. The National Weather Service said rainfall was decreasing but warned that rapid river rises and flooding remained possible.

In Fayetteville, emergency crews responded after a possible tornado caused damage in the northern part of the city. The National Weather Service had not officially confirmed a tornado touchdown there.

"The Fayetteville Fire Department and our emergency services partners are currently on scene of a large scale weather event response in the area of Skibo Rd and Bragg Blvd. Both search & rescue and hazardous materials response operations are underway." said the Fayetteville Fire Department.

Damage was reported along the Skibo Road and Bragg Boulevard corridors, including downed power lines, debris and damaged structures. Cumberland County also closed North Regional Library because of power outages.