The Village and Brunswick County Emergency Management are monitoring the weather forecast for tomorrow (Monday, 3/16). Several schools in the region have recently announced closures. Brunswick County Schools will be closed to students, and teachers and staff have a remote work option.
The latest briefing from NWS Wilmington HERE (released 6:04 PM 3/15) had the following key messages:
- Multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms may develop during the morning
through mid-afternoon Monday, mainly east of Interstate 95. This will be followed by a squall line that should move rapidly eastward across the entire area during the late afternoon hours. - Damaging wind gusts, tornadoes, and large hail will be possible. Closely monitor for severe thunderstorm or tornado watches and warnings.
- Even outside of thunderstorms, south winds may gust as high as 45 mph during the day on Monday. A Wind Advisory may be needed if gusts are expected to exceed 45 mph.
The next NWS briefing is expected at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow (3/16).
VILLAGE RESPONSE
- Village operations will be essential only on Monday, 3/16. Village Hall, Public Safety administrative office, and the Island Package Center and Post Office will be closed all day.
GUIDANCE FOR ISLANDERS
- If you are able to tie down/move indoors furniture or any other outdoor items that may be carried away by strong winds, please do so as soon as possible.
- Be prepared to take shelter tomorrow. Islanders should locate the safest place to go during a tornado – the lowest possible floor, under the stairs, or in a bathroom or closet are good shelter spots. Do not open or close windows. Stay away from windows. Bend down on the floor in the egg position. More info: HERE and HERE.
- Be prepared for possible power outages. Report any power outages to Duke Energy. View our power outage webpage HERE for more information. And follow Duke Energy’s guidance (HERE) for preparing for this event.
- Check Bald Head Island Transportation, Inc.’s app or website for updates on ferry service should this weather have an impact on ferry operations.