Burnsville, North Carolina – A fast-moving thunderstorm packing 60 mph winds and penny-sized hail is expected to impact parts of western North Carolina until 2:15 p.m. today, bringing a heightened risk of downed trees and power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, the storm was spotted at 1:17 p.m. about 10 miles southeast of Greeneville, Tennessee, moving east at 25 mph. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning remains in effect for Yancey, northern Madison, and northwestern Mitchell counties.
Communities including Burnsville, Bakersville, Bandana, and Green Mountain could experience strong wind gusts, frequent lightning, and isolated hail damage. Radar indicates the storm could affect roads such as US 19E and NC-80, especially in hilly or wooded areas.
Residents are urged to stay indoors, preferably in an interior room on the lowest floor. “If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning,” NWS warned.
Storm damage—especially to power lines—should be reported to NWS or emergency officials. Conditions may improve after 2:15 p.m., but additional warnings could be issued if the storm maintains strength.
