UPDATE: Tornado warning in effect for Dare County Monday - quarter-sized hail possible

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The NWS Newport/Morehead City NC issued an updated tornado warning at 3:25 p.m. on Monday in effect until 4 p.m. for Dare County.

Quarter-sized hail (1 inch) is forecast with the incoming storm.

"At 3:24 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over the Croatan Sound just west of Manteo, or 7 miles south of Kill Devil Hills, and is nearly stationary," says the NWS. "Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely."

Prepare for the tornado to possibly impact Manteo around 3:30 p.m.

Recommended action: Seek shelter

The NWS states, "Take cover now! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. If a tornado or other severe weather is spotted, report it to the National Weather Service or your local nearest law enforcement agency who will send your report. This act may save lives of others in the path of dangerous weather. If on or near the Croatan Sounds, get away from the water and move to safe shelter immediately. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Severe thunderstorms can produce large capsizing waves, even on small bodies of water. Move into dock and seek safe shelter now! Do not be caught on the water in a thunderstorm."

This warning is in effect until 4 p.m.

Tips for staying safe during a tornado

According to the NWS, rapid action is key to staying safe during a tornado. Stay updated on tornado watches and warnings by tuning in to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.

• If you are indoors: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget pets if time allows.
• If you are at your workplace or school: In accordance with your tornado drill, proceed calmly and swiftly to the assigned tornado shelter location. Steer clear of windows and avoid seeking refuge in large open areas such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
• If you are outside: If a tornado is approaching, seek immediate shelter inside a secure building. Remember that sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe options.
• If you are in a vehicle: It is not safe to remain in a vehicle when a tornado strikes. The most appropriate action is to drive to the closest shelter available. If unable to reach a secure shelter, either crouch down in your car, covering your head, or abandon the vehicle and seek refuge in a low-lying area like a ditch or ravine.

Do you have an emergency kit ready in case of a tornado?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supplies kit:

• Water, one gallon per person for at least three days
• Food, at least a three-day supply
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Whistle
• Dust mask to filter contaminated air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape, for shelter purposes
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots North Carolina

This story was originally published July 6, 2026 at 3:15 PM.