The National Weather Service lifted the tornado watch for central North Carolina shortly before 2 p.m. on Friday. Campus Drive has been cleared of excess water and is now open for vehicular traffic, allowing bus routes to resume their normal paths.
However, flooding continues to affect the intersection of Duke University Road and Highway 751 (Cameron Blvd.), which remains closed to traffic.
Earlier, at 11:05 a.m., a tornado warning was issued, and updates were made available on the DukeALERT website. The tornado watch, which was in effect until 6 p.m. for Durham, Wake, and nearby counties, indicates that conditions are conducive for tornado development in the area.
In the case of a tornado warning, meaning a tornado has been reported or detected via radar, Duke officials will notify students, faculty, and staff through text and email. If the warning encompasses Duke’s main campus, sirens will sound to prompt individuals to seek shelter immediately.
During a tornado watch, residents are advised to stay alert for severe weather conditions and pay attention to updates regarding potential warnings. For further details on Duke’s emergency response procedures for tornadoes, visit the Duke Emergency Management website.
Despite the weather, several events and activities are scheduled on Duke’s main campus for commencement weekend, and precautions have been implemented for planned outdoor events this afternoon and evening.