Strong Thunderstorm Moving Through Iredell & Northwestern Rowan Counties Until 2:45 PM

Thursday, May 21, 2026 - 2:19pm

A strong thunderstorm is moving across portions of Iredell County and northwestern Rowan County this afternoon, bringing gusty winds, heavy rain, and small hail potential.

As of 2:15 PM, Doppler radar indicated a strong thunderstorm located near Statesville, moving northeast at around 30 mph.

Main Threats

  • Wind gusts up to 40 mph
  • Half-inch hail
  • Heavy downpours and frequent lightning

While this storm is below severe thunderstorm warning criteria, it is still capable of producing locally strong wind gusts that could knock down small tree limbs and blow around unsecured outdoor objects. Minor hail damage to outdoor items is also possible.

Areas Impacted

Communities that could be impacted through 2:45 PM include:

  • Statesville
  • Scotts
  • Turnersburg
  • Cool Springs
  • Olin
  • Northwestern Rowan County

What To Expect

This storm is part of the scattered afternoon thunderstorm activity developing across the western Piedmont today. Storms remain hit-or-miss, but any stronger cell can quickly produce dangerous lightning and localized heavy rain.

If you are outdoors, now is a good time to move inside a sturdy building until the storm passes.

Rowan County Weather will continue monitoring radar trends through the afternoon and evening.

 
 

 

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