Boone, North Carolina – Residents across the North Carolina High Country should prepare for damaging winds and large hail this afternoon as a severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes ten counties across western and northwestern North Carolina—among them Watauga, Ashe, Surry, and Wilkes—where storms could bring wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to an inch in diameter.
Travel along U.S. Highway 421 and Blue Ridge Parkway could be impacted as fast-moving cells track eastward. Power outages and tree damage are also possible, especially in elevated areas like Boone and Spruce Pine. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activity during any thunderstorm warnings and to secure loose objects that could become projectiles in strong wind.
This storm system marks one of the first widespread severe weather events of May for the region. Drivers should allow extra travel time, and anyone with outdoor plans should monitor local alerts and seek shelter at the first sign of lightning.
Severe thunderstorm warnings may follow this watch—remain weather-aware through the evening.
