Tuesday’s Marginal Risk: What to Expect from Rowan County’s Next Storm Threat

ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. (April 21, 2025) — Tuesday brings the potential for unsettled weather across central North Carolina, including Rowan County, as the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) places the region under a Level 1 – Marginal Risk for severe storms.

This low-end risk category signals the chance for isolated thunderstorms to become strong, with a few possibly producing gusty winds, small hail, and brief heavy rainfall, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.

Understanding the Marginal Risk Level

The SPC’s categorical outlooks range from Level 1 (Marginal) to Level 5 (High Risk). A Marginal Risk means that while widespread severe weather is not expected, a few stronger storms could briefly reach severe levels, often producing wind gusts over 40-60 mph or hail around the size of peas to nickels.

These storms are usually short-lived and isolated, but they can still cause issues—especially if they track through areas with outdoor activities or weakened trees and limbs.

Tuesday’s Weather Setup

Forecast models suggest:

• Timing: Storm chances will increase after 2 PM, with the greatest potential during the late afternoon and early evening hours.

• Storm Triggers: A weak frontal boundary and pockets of daytime heating may provide just enough instability for a few cells to intensify.

• Hazards: The primary threats include:

  • Wind gusts 40–50+ mph

  • Small hail

  • Heavy downpours leading to brief ponding on roads

The high temperature is expected to reach the upper 70s, with increasing humidity levels throughout the day.

Rowan County’s History with Marginal Risk Days

While a Level 1 risk may seem minor, it’s not always quiet. Just last spring, Rowan County saw multiple wind damage reports and a few downed trees under Marginal Risk outlooks. The takeaway? It doesn’t take a high-end risk to produce localized problems.

Staying Weather Aware

Tuesday is a good day to:

• Keep your phone charged and alerts enabled.

• Follow Rowan County Weather on social media for updates.

• Know where to go if lightning or strong storms develop—especially if you're outdoors in the afternoon.

Final Thoughts

Tuesday’s severe weather potential is low—but not zero. With isolated thunderstorms on the radar, it’s important to stay tuned for updates as conditions evolve. I’ll be monitoring it closely and will share real-time info if any warnings are issued.

Stay safe and stay weather aware!

—
Steve Monday
Chief Forecaster, Rowan County Weather