Strong Storms Possible Sunday Evening Across Rowan County

ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — While most of Saturday is expected to remain dry with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, attention is turning to Sunday afternoon and evening when thunderstorms could become strong across portions of the region.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed Rowan County under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather on Sunday. While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few storms could produce damaging wind gusts as a cold front approaches the area.

What To Expect

Sunday will begin much like Saturday, with sunshine, increasing humidity, and temperatures climbing into the mid-90s. Heat index values may approach or exceed 100 degrees during the afternoon before storms begin to develop.

Thunderstorm chances are expected to increase after 5 PM as a cold front moves east across the Carolinas.

Current forecast guidance suggests storms may organize into clusters as they move into the western Piedmont during the late afternoon and evening hours.

Main Threat: Damaging Winds

The primary severe weather threat will be damaging wind gusts capable of:

• Bringing down tree limbs
• Causing isolated power outages
• Blowing around unsecured outdoor objects
• Creating hazardous travel conditions

While a brief period of small hail cannot be completely ruled out, damaging straight-line winds remain the greatest concern.

Timing

The highest chance for thunderstorms across Rowan County currently appears to be:

• Sunday Afternoon: Dry and hot
• 5 PM to 10 PM: Greatest storm potential
• Late Evening: Storms gradually move east and weaken

Not every location will receive rainfall, but residents should remain weather aware throughout the evening hours.

Heat Remains A Concern

Before storms arrive, dangerous heat will continue across the area.

High temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s Sunday, with heat index values near or above 100 degrees.

Anyone planning outdoor activities for Father's Day weekend should stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and monitor for signs of heat-related illness.

Cooler Air Arrives Next Week

The good news is that Sunday's cold front will usher in a more comfortable air mass for the start of next week.

High temperatures will fall into the mid-80s Monday and lower 80s Tuesday, accompanied by noticeably lower humidity levels.

While isolated showers and thunderstorms remain possible early next week, rain chances are expected to be lower than Sunday's.

Rowan County Weather will continue monitoring Sunday's storm potential and provide updates if watches or warnings become necessary.