The National Weather Service office in Wakefield, VA issued a flood warning for Bertie, Gates, Hertford and Northampton counties until 4:15 a.m. Sunday.

Doppler radar and automated rain gauges have measured upwards to six inches of rain since this afternoon. In excess of two inches have fallen since 7 p.m.

More rain is expected tonight from the rain bands of Hurricane Matthew, perhaps as much as four to eight inches. Many roads in the four counties are now covered with water and are impassable.

There have been three reported rescues of motorists who were stranded or involved in an accident due to high water on local roads….one on Pinetops Road in Hertford County near Producer’s Cotton Gin and two in Northampton County – on NC 35 near Milwaukee and the other on NC 186 near Garysburg.

The NWS is referencing this weather situation as “life threatening” to those who live in low-lying areas. If you live in flood prone areas, act now to protect your safety.

A wind advisory is also in effect in Gates, Hertford and Northampton counties until Sunday afternoon. Winds are expected between 25 and 35 mph with gusts as high as 50 mph. That is strong enough to topple trees and large branches.

Bertie was placed under a high wind warning until Sunday afternoon. Expect winds there from 30 to 40 mph with gusts as high as 60 mph.