ROCKINGHAM — Although no warnings or watches have yet been issued, there is a high potential for strong thunderstorms to sweep through Richmond County this afternoon and into the night.
The National Weather Service in Raleigh has issued a hazardous weather outlook for central North Carolina saying the greatest potential for storms is from 3 p.m. to midnight.
Along with these storms comes the risk of strong straightline winds and the potential for tornadoes and hail — in addition to heavy downpours that could cause flooding and make driving hazardous.
There is currently a tornado watch in effect for areas north of Richmond County, including Stanly, Montgomery, Moore, Hoke, Randolph, Lee and Cumberland counties.
Residents in Ellerbe reported hail in a thunderstorm Saturday afternoon.
The rest of the week is expected to be sunny and warm, with clouds moving in on Thursday with a chance for more showers and storms at the end of the week.
