Heat Wave Intensifies with Severe Storms Possible Wednesday

Tuesday, June 24, 2025 – Rowan County Weather

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued an updated briefing as a dangerous heat wave continues to grip the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia. Rowan County remains under a Heat Advisory through 8 PM Wednesday, and a round of strong to severe thunderstorms is possible Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Oppressive Heat Continues

Heat index values are forecast to climb above 105°F again this afternoon and continue into Wednesday evening. The advisory covers much of the Piedmont and foothills of North Carolina, including Rowan County.

This kind of prolonged heat can be dangerous, especially for:

• Individuals without air conditioning

• Outdoor workers

• Those with limited access to water

• Older adults and children

Health systems and heat-sensitive industries may also experience operational impacts. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during peak heat hours, and check on neighbors and pets.

Severe Weather Threat Wednesday

In addition to the heat, Wednesday brings the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening hours. The Storm Prediction Center currently places much of the region under a marginal to slight risk for severe weather.

The primary threat will be damaging wind gusts, though brief heavy rain and frequent lightning are also possible. The National Weather Service warns that numerous storms may develop and persist into the evening.

What to Watch For

While the heat remains the most immediate threat today, attention will shift to storm development by late Wednesday. The forecast does carry some uncertainty — if widespread storms form earlier in the day, they could limit high temperatures and reduce the severe weather risk. However, if storms hold off until later, both the heat and storm strength could peak simultaneously.

Looking Ahead

The upper-level ridge driving this heat wave is expected to weaken by Thursday, allowing temperatures and heat index values to trend downward slightly into the weekend. Thunderstorm chances will continue on a daily basis, though the risk for severe storms should lessen by Friday.

Stay Informed

Rowan County Weather will continue to provide updates on both the extreme heat and storm threat as new guidance comes in. Be sure to follow along for radar updates, advisory alerts, and real-time impacts.