ASHEBORO N.C. – An evening thunderstorm brought with it heavy rain, vehicle crashes, downed trees, and power outages.
Just before 6pm, the National Weather Service in Raleigh issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Randolph County after radar indicated a severe thunderstorm near Lexington, moving northeast at 30 mph with 60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.
Just as the storm was leaving Asheboro, Westside Fire Dept, Asheboro Fire Dept, Randolph County EMS, and Ash-Rand Rescue were dispatched to a vehicle crash on I-73/74 SB just south of Spero Rd for a vehicle crash with two occupants pinned-in. Both occupants were extricated by rescue crews.
As the investigation is still underway no further details about the crash or the condition of the occupants are available currently. NC DOT’s Traffic Information Managment System (TIMS) is reporting crews expect the highway to full open back up around 9:30 pm.
Duke Energy is reporting just over 1,000 customers are without power in Randolph County, mainly in Asheboro.
No ETA for repairs is available currently but Duke Energy crews are on scene in the area. If you see a fallen power line, Duke Energy request that you call them at 800.POWERON (800.769.3766) or call 911 immediately. Do not approach or touch downed lines.
Asheboro Police had to respond to E Dixie Dr at Zoo Parkway due to traffic lights out at the intersection. Police remind drivers that an intersection without functioning lights should be treated as a 4-way-stop.
More storms are likely overnight. Friday expect rain and falling temperature to around 45 by 4pm with gusts as high as 31 mph.
As this is an on-going situation more details will be added as they become available.
UPDATE 4/6/23 8:30pm – Duke Energy is reporting they expect to have power restored in Asheboro between 9:00pm and 10:00pm, and in Franklinville around 9:30pm, and fully restored across Randolph County by 11pm tonight.