SOUTHEASTERN, N.C. — Images shared by Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) Thursday morning appear to show structural damage that could have been caused by a tornado in The Farm, a neighborhood in Carolina Shores.
A BCSO spokesperson said her office cannot confirm damage was caused by a tornado — that’s up to the National Weather Service to determine.
Related: NCDOT: Avoid flooded roadways, stay up-to-date on conditions if traveling
No injuries are reported, according to BCSO’s spokesperson. Social media posts show several homes have been damaged as a result of the weather event. The weather event impacted The Farm between 7:30 and 7:45 a.m. Thursday.
Tornado watch
The Cape Fear region is under a tornado watch until 4 p.m. Thursday afternoon as Hurricane Dorian moves closer to the North Carolina coast, according to the National Weather Service Wilmington. Tornado warnings mean the risk is greater than a tornado watch.
Several Brunswick County communities were under tornado warnings early Thursday morning, according to a county press release.
Brunswick County strongly encourages residents to prepare for tornado watches, should the National Weather Service issue more. The National Weather Service, in its warning notice, asks people to immediately take cover in the lowest floor of a sturdy building, avoid windows, and find the closest substantial shelter if outdoors, in a vehicle, or in a mobile home.
Here’s what to do when a tornado warning is activated, according to Brunswick County:
- If you can safely get to a sturdy building, then do so immediately.
- Go to a safe room, basement, or storm cellar.
- If you are in a building with no basement, then get to a small interior room on the lowest level.
- Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
- Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
- Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
- Use your arms to protect your head and neck.
Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office shared a video out of Carolina Shores community, The Farm, which was impacted by what could be determined to be a tornado at approximately 7:30 a.m. Thursday.
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