Image Source: ABC11 News

Tornado warnings spread across central North Carolina on Sunday as severe thunderstorms and suspected tornadoes moved through the Triangle and surrounding communities. The storms brought down trees, caused flooding, damaged homes, and created dangerous travel conditions across the region.

The severe weather affected parts of Raleigh, Durham-area communities, Fayetteville, Chatham County, Harnett County, Johnston County, Franklin County, and other locations. Emergency officials and local responders continued assessing damage as reports came in throughout the day.

Powerful Tornado Warnings Impact Central North Carolina

Chatham County dispatch confirmed that a tornado touched down approximately nine miles east of Pittsboro. The storm affected areas near Cary, Apex, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, and Crosswinds Boating Center.

A tornado warning for the area remained in effect until 12:15 p.m. Residents in and around the warning zone were urged to move indoors, stay away from windows, and monitor official weather alerts as the storm passed.

The combination of strong winds, heavy rain, and possible tornado activity made conditions especially hazardous. Flooding was also reported in some locations, creating additional risks for drivers and pedestrians.

Storm Damage Reported in Raleigh, Rolesville, and Fayetteville

In Raleigh, officials reported that a vehicle was found in water near Glenwood Avenue. The incident highlighted the dangerous flooding conditions that developed during the storms.

Rolesville also saw reports of downed trees following a tornado touchdown. Farther north, trees were reported down along Highway 56 in Louisburg, affecting road conditions and potentially limiting access for residents and emergency crews.

In Fayetteville, storm damage was reported along Ramsey Street and Skibo Road. These corridors are heavily traveled, and downed trees, debris, standing water, or damaged structures could create delays for motorists.

A tornado was confirmed about nine miles east of Pittsboro.
Storm impacts were reported in Cary, Apex, and near Jordan Lake.
Rolesville and Louisburg saw reports of downed trees.
Fayetteville experienced reported damage along Ramsey Street and Skibo Road.
Flooding was reported near Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh.

Multiple Homes Damaged in Harnett County

Harnett County officials reported that multiple homes were damaged along Highway 401 and Josey Williams Road. Brian Heath, deputy fire marshal for Harnett County, said officials received multiple reports of damaged houses.

The full extent of the damage was not immediately available. Emergency personnel were expected to continue checking affected neighborhoods and determining whether residents needed assistance or temporary shelter.

Residents should avoid entering damaged buildings until authorities determine that the structures are safe. Downed power lines, broken glass, unstable walls, and gas leaks can remain serious hazards even after the storm has moved away.

Clayton Reports Downed Trees and Minor Home Damage

In Clayton, multiple trees fell onto railroad tracks near the intersection of U.S. 70, also known as Clayton Boulevard, and N.C. 42 East. Officials clarified that the trees were on the railroad tracks rather than blocking the highway.

Several homes also sustained minor damage along Iris Street in Clayton. Cleanup and damage assessments were expected to continue as local agencies worked to clear debris and inspect affected properties.

Although some reports described minor damage, residents should continue using caution. Severe weather can leave hidden dangers, including weakened trees, live wires, flooded intersections, and unstable structures.

What Residents Should Do After Tornado Warnings

People in storm-affected areas should remain alert for additional weather statements and follow instructions from emergency officials. A warning means dangerous weather is occurring or imminent, while a watch indicates that conditions are favorable for severe storms or tornadoes.

Stay indoors and move to a small interior room on the lowest floor.
Keep away from windows and exterior walls.
Never drive through flooded roads or around barricades.
Stay clear of downed power lines and report them to authorities.
Check homes carefully for structural damage before re-entering.
Use battery-powered alerts if power or phone service is interrupted.

ABC11 News reported that severe storms and tornadoes moved across central North Carolina throughout Sunday, October 11, 2026. Officials continued reviewing damage reports from communities across the Triangle, Sandhills, and nearby counties.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tornado Warnings

Where was a tornado confirmed Sunday?

Chatham County dispatch confirmed a tornado touched down approximately nine miles east of Pittsboro. The storm affected areas near Cary, Apex, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, and Crosswinds Boating Center.

What damage was reported across the region?

Reports included damaged homes in Harnett County and Clayton, downed trees in Rolesville, Louisburg, and Clayton, flooding near Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh, and storm damage in Fayetteville.

How long was the Chatham County warning in effect?

The tornado warning for the affected Chatham County area remained in effect until 12:15 p.m. Sunday.

What should drivers do during flooding?

Drivers should avoid flooded roads, never pass barricades, and turn around if water covers the roadway. Even shallow moving water can sweep away a vehicle.