Wind Alert: Could Gusts Reach 45 MPH Sunday Night?

A noticeable shift in our weather is coming Sunday evening as strong northwest winds develop behind the departing storm system.

While rain will taper off Sunday afternoon, the bigger impact may come after sunset.

How Strong Could the Wind Get?

Current guidance suggests:

• Wind gusts between 30 and 45 mph

• Strongest winds likely Sunday evening through early Monday morning

• Winds gradually easing Monday afternoon

A tight pressure gradient developing as low pressure rapidly strengthens off the Carolina coast will allow colder air to rush in — and that’s when winds ramp up.

What This Means for Rowan County

At 30–45 mph gusts, we could see:

• Isolated power outages

• Small limbs down

• Loose outdoor decorations blown around

• Difficult travel for high-profile vehicles

While widespread damage is not expected at this time, gusts near 45 mph are strong enough to cause localized issues.

It Will Feel Much Colder

Sunday night temperatures drop into the upper 20s, and with gusty winds, wind chills could dip into the lower 20s.

Monday remains breezy with highs only near the low 40s — meaning it will feel colder than the thermometer suggests.

Timeline Summary

• Sunday Morning: Rain ending

• Sunday Afternoon: Clearing begins

• Sunday Evening: Winds increase rapidly

• Overnight Sunday Night: Strongest gusts

• Monday: Breezy but gradually improving

Bottom Line

Rain may get the attention today, but wind could be the bigger story late Sunday into Monday.

Now is a good time to secure loose outdoor items and be prepared for a windy start to the new week.

I’ll continue to monitor trends and update if wind projections increase or if advisories are issued.