Tornado Watch Issued Until 8 p.m. Friday

Storms expected to bring strong winds, possible hail and isoolated tornadoes

Tornado Watch Issued

The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for Durham, Wake, Orange and surrounding counties for 8 p.m. Friday.

A “watch” means conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area.

The primary hazard will be damaging wind gusts, however large hail and an isolated tornado or two are also possible. Wind gusts could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Locally heavy could lead to localized flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

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.

During a tornado watch, the weather service suggests that people should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings. For more information about Duke's emergency response plan for tornados, visit the Duke Emergency Management website.