Later, the focus shifted south, when severe thunderstorm warnings wereissued for southeastern Chatham and southwestern Wake counties. The areaalong US Highway 1, between Apex and Holly Springs saw a great deal ofstorm activity.
The main danger from these storms appeared to be lightning and damagingwinds. There was no indication of tornadic activity.
The storm hit Vance County mid-afternoon Wednesday catching many peoplecompletely off-guard. Highway 39, a major thoroughfare in the area, wasclosed for most of the afternoon because of a downed tree across the road.The road connects Interstate-85 and US 1, and is extremely busy duringrush hours.
Carolina Power & Light crews worked along the road trying to restorepower. They werepartially successful by 5 p.m. Police say there are trees down, some onpower lines, in many areas of Henderson and that some school buses weredelayed until some roads could be cleared.
Two trees came down at Myrtle Short's house. One in front of the house,blocking the road, and another in the back yard. Short said the storm tookher completely by surprise.
Henderson Police Lt. Sam Pearson said all hands were busy throughoutthe afternoon.
CP&L said more than 6,000 customers were without power, mainly in thearea around downtown Henderson. There were also scattered outages inGranville, Vance and Warren counties. A spokesperson for the utility saidthere was no word on when all power would be restored.
Officials say they believe a micro-burst might have been responsiblefor the concentrated area of damage.
CP&L crews from the Triangle moved into the area to assist.
WRAL-TV5'sGreg Fishelsaidconditions would favor tornado development throughout the night in theviewing area.
Photographer:Lori Foushee
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