Heavy thunderstorms and record-breaking temperatures on Tuesday afternoon led to flash floods and power outages in parts of the Triangle and surrounding counties in North Carolina. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for areas including Raleigh, Wake Forest, and Garner until 8:15 p.m. impacting approximately 914,000 people. Severe thunderstorm warnings were also issued with dangerous winds, hail, and heavy rain, causing road closures and a 32-vehicle crash on Interstate 40 westbound in Durham.

Duke Energy reported over 60,000 customers without power in Durham and Wake County, and the storm caused more than 144,501 power outages across the state. Downed trees and fallen power lines closed several roads in Durham, including Anderson Street, Norwood Avenue, and Hope Valley Road. The storm brought wind gusts of up to 80 miles per hour, causing significant damage in Guilford County, where winds reached ground speeds between 70 to 100 miles per hour.

A severe thunderstorm watch remained in effect for 62 counties, including Wake County, until 9 p.m. Tuesday. The storm also resulted in heat advisories for the Triangle due to excessive heat. If you were affected by the flash floods or power outages, check with local authorities for road closures and power outage updates. Stay safe and seek shelter during severe weather conditions.