ACTION REQUIRED: Strong Thunderstorms Approaching Wilkes County

Residents of Wilkes County are advised to seek shelter indoors immediately as a cluster of strong thunderstorms approaches. The National Weather Service in Blacksburg VA issued a Special Weather Statement at 4:32 PM EDT, effective until 5:00 PM EDT today, September 20, 2026.

Doppler radar indicates wind gusts up to 40 mph are possible. These gusts could lead to downed tree limbs and displace unsecured outdoor objects. The storms are currently located over Buck, or near Wilkesboro, and are moving southeast at 15 mph.

Areas expected to be impacted include North Wilkesboro, Wilkesboro, Ronda, Boomer, Windy Gap, Darby, and Mulberry.

Locally heavy rain associated with these storms will quickly reduce visibility and may cause ponding on roadways, standing water in low-lying areas, and minor flooding of creeks, streams, and poorly drained areas. Drivers are urged to slow down and use extra caution to avoid hydroplaning.