Severe Weather Update for Carrboro - 10 am Monday, March 16, 2026 

CARRBORO, NC -- Due to severe weather forecast including strong winds and possible tornadoes, Carrboro Town Hall, the Drakeford Library Complex, and the Carrboro Century Center will close at noon Monday, March 16.

To prioritize the safety of our community and staff, the decision was made out of an abundance of caution as the National Weather Service forecasts potentially dangerous weather conditions across central North Carolina this afternoon and evening. Wind gusts in the Triangle area are expected to peak between 3 and 7 p.m.

Essential services, including emergency services and law enforcement, will continue to operate.

• Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and have a plan in place in case a tornado warning is issued. 
• For official updates and preparedness information, visit https://www.orangecountync.gov/640/Emergency-Services.  Residents are also encouraged to sign up for OC Alerts at https://member.everbridge.net/453003085611768/login

Information from Orange County Government - Central North Carolina Weather Alert 

Strong to severe storms are expected across central North Carolina this afternoon and evening. Residents should prepare for multiple severe weather hazards beginning around midday.

Main Hazards:

• Widespread damaging winds: 45–60% probability, with some gusts potentially exceeding 74 mph
• Tornadoes: 10–15% probability, with the potential for a few significant tornadoes (EF-2 or stronger)
• Damaging hail: Around a 5% probability, with hail up to 2 inches or larger possible
• Frequent lightning: Localized cloud-to-ground lightning possible anywhere through about 11 p.m. 

Timing:

• Damaging Winds: 12 - 10 p.m. 
• Tornado Risk: 12 - 8 p.m. 
• Hail Risk: 12 - 8 p.m. 

Forecast Details:

There is high confidence that a broken line of storms will move across central North Carolina during the afternoon and evening hours. These storms are expected to produce widespread strong to damaging wind gusts, with some areas possibly experiencing gusts over 75 mph.

Embedded tornadoes are possible within the line of storms. In addition, a few isolated supercell storms may develop ahead of the main line. If these form, they could produce all severe weather hazards, including tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail.

Now is the time to review your severe weather safety plan and ensure you have a reliable way to receive weather alerts throughout the day. Sign up for OC Alerts at https://member.everbridge.net/453003085611768/login