26 NC counties are under alert, including Cumberland, Chatham, Sampson, and Hoke counties.

We’re also tracking how long severe weather risks last, a live look at the roads in the WRAL Storm Tracker and why dozens of child care centers plan to close Thursday. Watch WRAL-TV at 7 p.m., and search for these and other stories on WRAL.com.

On WRAL at 7: New images of school bus crash with children on board. What we’re learning about the crash

Your guide to best brunch spots in Raleigh. 

Savor the flavor: Raleigh's 20 best brunch spots revealed

Rosewater Kitchen & Bar

As the number of juvenile offenders climbs, the state is looking at alternatives crowded detention centers to make sure young people already convicted of crimes can turn their lives around. 

Education, skills and rehab focus easing burden on NC juvenile justice system

Inside the juvenile justice system

The 12th Annual American Tobacco Tower Lighting was held on Friday, December 2, 2016.
(Photo By: Beth Jewell/WRAL Contributor)

American Tobacco Tower Lighting (Dec. 2, 2016)