A severe thunderstorm alert has been issued for Western North Carolina this Saturday afternoon, as the National Weather Service warns of fast-moving storms bringing strong winds and hail to the region.
Strong thunderstorms expected across Burke and McDowell counties
The NWS office in Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina, released a weather alert at 1:26 p.m., warning that storms capable of producing wind gusts up to 50 mph and hail up to 0.5 inches in diameter are expected to impact Burke Mountains, Greater Burke, and the McDowell Mountains until at least 2:00 p.m..
According to the agency, Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm around 1:25 p.m., located about 11 miles east of Spruce Pine or roughly 4 miles west of Table Rock, moving southeast at around 10 mph.
Forecasters say the storm is capable of producing gusty winds that could snap tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to outdoor items is also a possibility.
Areas in the path of the storm
Communities expected to feel the impact include Table Rock, Lake James, Lake James State Park, and Ashford. The NWS advises anyone outdoors to seek shelter in a sturdy building until the storm has passed.
The alert remains in effect until 2:00 p.m., though changing weather conditions may extend the threat.
What to know about lightning danger during summer storms
Lightning remains one of the most underestimated hazards during the summer months. According to the National Weather Service, lightning strikes the United States roughly 25 million times each year, causing about 20 deaths annually.
The risk of being struck increases significantly as a storm draws closer, peaking when it’s directly overhead. That risk only begins to drop once the system has moved a safe distance away.
What to do during a thunderstorm
The NWS recommends having a plan to reach shelter before heading outdoors when storms are in the forecast. If you hear thunder or see the sky growing dark, move indoors immediately.
Once inside, avoid using corded phones, plumbing, or any electrical devices, and stay away from windows and doors. After the last rumble of thunder, wait 30 minutes before going back outside.
If you’re caught outside with no shelter nearby, stay away from open fields, hilltops, and isolated tall trees. In wooded areas, seek lower ground among shorter trees. If you’re in a group, spread out to reduce the risk of multiple injuries in case of a lightning strike.
Camping? Set up in valleys or ravines, never on high or exposed terrain—and remember, tents offer no protection from lightning.
Driving dangers: staying safe in heavy rain
Thunderstorms often bring heavy rainfall, making roads hazardous. Drivers should turn on headlights, reduce speed, and stick to elevated lanes, as water tends to pool near road edges.
Avoid puddles, which can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control. Keep a safe distance from large trucks or buses, which can spray water and reduce visibility. Never attempt to drive through a flooded roadway—the water may be deeper than it looks, and swift currents can be deadly.
Understanding hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road due to a thin layer of water. It’s most likely at high speeds, on worn tires, or in deep water.
If your car begins to hydroplane, ease off the accelerator, steer in the direction of the skid, and avoid slamming the brakes. Wait until your tires reconnect with the pavement, then gradually regain control.
The NWS continues to monitor conditions across Western North Carolina and may issue additional advisories if storms strengthen or new cells develop.
