Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Rowan County and Surrounding Areas

The National Weather Service has issued Severe Thunderstorm Watch 347, effective until 8:00 PM EDT this evening, for a broad portion of the Southeast, including Rowan County.

This watch covers areas in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, where conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornadoes.

Counties Included in North Carolina:

• Piedmont NC: Alexander, Cabarrus, Catawba, Cleveland, Davie, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Union (NC)

• Western NC: Burke, Caldwell, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford

Counties Included in South Carolina:

• Upstate SC: Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, Union (SC), York

Counties Included in Northeast Georgia:

Elbert, Franklin, Habersham, Hart, Stephens

Threat Overview:

Scattered strong to severe storms are expected to continue developing this afternoon and evening. These storms may organize into fast-moving clusters capable of:

• Damaging wind gusts up to 60–70 mph

• Hail up to 1 inch or larger

• A few brief tornadoes, especially in areas with strong wind shear

Storm movement is expected to be generally eastward at speeds between 45–65 mph, which means warnings could be issued quickly and with little lead time. Residents in the watch area are advised to remain alert and monitor local weather updates.

Cities Under the Watch Include:

Salisbury, Charlotte, Concord, Mooresville, Monroe, Statesville, Hickory, Gastonia, Shelby, Greenville, Spartanburg, Rock Hill, Anderson, Hartwell, Toccoa, and many more.

What to Do:

• Ensure weather alerts are enabled on your phone or NOAA weather radio

• Secure outdoor items that could be blown around

• Be prepared to move to shelter quickly if a warning is issued

Rowan County Weather will continue providing updates as storms approach our area. Radar tracking, timing guidance, and warning coverage will be posted throughout the day.

Stay tuned and stay safe.