North Carolina – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for nearly 40 counties across North Carolina until midnight Thursday, May 8, as a line of strong storms moves through the region.
The National Weather Service issued the watch shortly after 4 p.m. EDT, warning of severe thunderstorms that could bring damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and possible hail to affected areas. The storm system is expected to impact counties including Alamance, Mecklenburg, Forsyth, and Buncombe, with potential for severe weather through the evening hours.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, the storm threat includes areas like Charlotte, Greensboro, and Asheville. Residents in these regions should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including the possibility of power outages and hazardous driving conditions due to intense rainfall and wind gusts of up to 60 mph.
Storms are expected to diminish by midnight, but localized flooding and storm-related damage could persist into the early morning hours. The NWS urges people in affected areas to stay updated on the latest weather alerts and be prepared to take shelter if severe weather approaches.
A follow-up advisory is possible if conditions warrant further warnings or updates.
