Governor Josh Stein Warns North Carolina to Brace for Rare Level 4 Moderate Risk Monday

North Carolina is facing an unprecedented Level 4 'Moderate Risk' severe weather outbreak Monday.

The National Weather Service in Raleigh has issued this rare designation for central North Carolina.

ABC

Surrounding areas are also facing elevated risks with different severity levels.

This represents a significant weather event that emergency officials are taking seriously.

The potential for widespread damage and public safety concerns is driving the elevated alert.

Multiple school districts across central North Carolina have preemptively canceled classes Monday.

At least two central North Carolina school districts have canceled classes for the day.

CBS 17

Many counties including Chapel Hill-Carrboro, Durham, Harnett, Johnston, Lee, Moore, Orange, Robeson, Wake, and Wayne County are closing.

Some counties are implementing early dismissals instead of full closures.

These school closures reflect the seriousness of the forecast.

The priority is keeping students and staff safe during potentially dangerous weather conditions.

The storm system poses multiple severe weather threats.

Damaging winds could exceed 75 mph.

There is a significant risk of tornadoes.

Large hail is also a potential threat.

A powerful line of storms is expected to sweep across the area Monday afternoon and evening.

Meteorologists warn of a 15% to 30% chance of strong tornadoes.

This represents the highest chance of tornado activity in the Raleigh-Durham region since March 2021.

Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency awareness.

He is urging all North Carolinians to prepare for the severe weather.

ABC

The governor emphasized the unusual severity of the weather event.

Governor Stein stated: 'unusually severe weather is moving into North Carolina, bringing a risk of damaging wind gusts, thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes.'

North Carolina Emergency Management has activated State Emergency Response Team personnel and resources.

This activation indicates the level of preparation being undertaken by state officials.

The activation is in anticipation of severe weather impacts.

Emergency officials are urging residents to take proactive safety measures.

All residents should have plans in place for where they will take cover during tornado warnings.

CBS 17

Officials recommend enabling emergency alerts on cell phones.

Residents should monitor local news during the severe weather event.

Following the National Weather Service and local emergency management offices is advised.

The statewide risk assessment shows varying levels of threat across North Carolina.

Central North Carolina faces the highest Level 4 moderate risk.

Eastern North Carolina and the foothills are at Level 3 enhanced risk.

Portions of the mountains are at Level 2 slight risk.