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Tornado Watch Issued for Durham County

A watch means conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes

alert

[Update: Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020: 4:05 p.m.]  The tornado watch for Durham County has been canceled.

A flood warning remains in effect through Sunday, Feb. 9. Up to three inches of rain have already fallen, with up to an inch of additional rain possible through the evening.

Officials suggest not driving into areas where the water covers the roadway. The water depth may be too great to allow your car to cross safely.

[Update: Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020: 12:55 p.m.]: The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning in Durham County, but the warning area does not currently threaten Duke’s main campus. Officials are monitoring the storm closely and will send an update if conditions change.

If the warning area includes Duke’s main campus, the sirens will be activated and text and email notifications will direct individuals to seek shelter immediately.

Future updates will be posted on the DukeALERT website.

Original Post: The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for Durham County, including Duke's main campus, and other Triangle areas until 7 p.m. Thursday.

As a reminder, a tornado watch means conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. In the event of a tornado warning, which indicates a tornado has been sighted or indicated on radar, Duke officials will send a text and email notification to students, faculty and staff. If the warning area includes Duke's main campus, the sirens will also be activated along with text and email notifications to direct individuals to seek shelter immediately.

The National Weather Service reports that severe thunderstorms are possible across central North Carolina this afternoon and tonight. Although damaging wind gusts will be the primary threat, there is also the potential for a few brief tornadoes. The storm could result in localized downed trees and power lines. Heavy rain could also result in localized flash flooding in areas. Rain totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected with the storm.

Additional updates will be posted here, as needed as well as on the Working@Duke Twitter feed.