The National Weather Service confirms two tornadoes as severe storms sweep across the region

PENDER AND COLUMBUS COUNTIES, N.C. (WWAY) — The National Weather Service office in Wilmington confirmed tornadoes in Pender and Columbus counties Sunday afternoon as the remnants of Hurricane Isaias moved through southeastern North Carolina, bringing dangerous storms and reports of damage across the region.

In Pender County, a tornado was observed near Atkinson at approximately 1:18 p.m. Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. A trained weather spotter reported the tornado near Rankin Street and Beatty’s Bridge Road as it moved northeast toward U.S. Highway 421 and Point Caswell Road.

A second tornado was reported between Clarendon and Whiteville in Columbus County, adding to the severe weather concerns across the region.

The strength of the tornadoes has not yet been determined. The National Weather Service typically conducts damage surveys when conditions permit to assign an Enhanced Fujita (EF) rating, which estimates tornado intensity based on the damage observed.

Residents across southeastern North Carolina are urged to remain alert for additional weather updates and reports from local officials as assessments continue.