Weather alert announced for heavy rain with showers in Eastern North Carolina until 2 a.m. Sunday

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A weather alert was issued by the NWS Wakefield VA on Sunday at 1:33 a.m. for heavy rain and showers until 2:15 a.m. The alert is for Pasquotank, Camden and Perquimans counties.

Residents may experience wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

"At 1:31 a.m., Doppler radar tracked gusty showers over Elizabeth City, moving southeast at 15 mph," comments the NWS. "Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Reduced visibility and minor flooding possible."

Locations impacted by the alert include Elizabeth City, Camden, Elizabeth City State University, Weeksville, Old Trap, Whitehall Shores, Shiloh, Bob White Fork, Belcross, Burnt Mills, Symonds Creek, Listers Corner, Glen Cove, Frog Island, Riddle, Texas, Spences Corner, Goose Creek, Lambs Corner and Bartlett.

The NWS adds, "Heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways."

This alert is in effect until 2:15 a.m.

What steps to follow when driving in the rain?

• Turn on headlights - Even in daylight, using headlights can help improve visibility and let other drivers know where you are.
• While on the road - Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
• Steer clear of puddles - Driving into puddles or low areas of rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control.
• Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
• Avoid flooded zones - If you encounter a flooded road, make a U-turn and go back. The powerful currents of flash floods can carry drivers off the road. Driving through deep water can also damage a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. The three main causes of hydroplaning are:

1. Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:

• Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots North Carolina

This story was originally published July 12, 2026 at 1:37 AM.