News Summary
Heavy rain and lightning hit the Charlotte area, leading to flash flooding and significant travel disruptions. Over 400 flight delays and 90 cancellations were reported at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Nearby counties are experiencing dangerous conditions, including flash flooding, as isolated rainfall levels rise. Meteorologists warn of ongoing severe storms, including high wind gusts, and urge residents to take precautionary measures during this hazardous weather situation.
Charlotte – Severe weather conditions brought heavy rain and lightning to the Charlotte area, resulting in flash flooding and significant disruptions, including more than 400 flight delays and 90 cancellations at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. While Mecklenburg County experienced minimal impact, nearby counties such as Catawba, Iredell, Lincoln, and Caldwell were seriously affected.
The WCNC Charlotte Weather Impact Team issued a Weather Alert due to the hazardous conditions, as meteorologist Brad Panovich consistently monitored the storms through Live Weather Impact on WCNC+. The forecasts predict isolated rainfall amounts could reach between 1 to 3 inches over the next several days, with an ongoing risk of severe storms featuring potential wind gusts up to 60 mph.
The primary concern among meteorologists is the flash flooding, exacerbated by slow-moving storms traveling at speeds of 10 to 20 mph, which could lead to increased rainfall totals in affected areas. Initial projections indicate that total rain accumulation over the next three days could reach between 4 to 5 inches in some locales, with isolated areas possibly exceeding this threshold.
As of 10:30 p.m. on the night of the storm, over 3 inches of rain had already fallen in parts of the region. Some specific locations recorded about 5 inches of rainfall by that time. Particularly affected counties included Iredell and Lincoln, each receiving over 4 inches, while Caldwell County saw approximately 4 inches of rain. Flood advisories have been issued for Alexander, Caldwell, Catawba, and Iredell counties, remaining in effect until 4:15 a.m. on Thursday.
In addition to the heavy rains, a severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service for Montgomery, Moore, Richmond, and Scotland counties, valid until 7:30 p.m. Wind gusts accompanying the storm are anticipated to reach 60 mph, posing risks for damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Communities including Southern Pines, Troy, Pinehurst, Aberdeen, Biscoe, Hoffman, Pinebluff, Robbins, Ellerbe, and Foxfire are all warranted caution due to this threat.
Travelers are advised to exercise caution, as hydroplaning could occur on wet roads. This dangerous driving condition happens when a vehicle loses traction due to water accumulation, significantly increasing the chances of accidents. Lightning also remains a significant concern during these thunderstorms, with recommendations for individuals to seek shelter indoors when such conditions arise. The frequency of lightning strikes in the U.S. averages approximately 25 million annually, with around 20 fatalities linked to lightning each year.
Precautionary measures are essential during severe weather. Residents in the affected counties should remain alert for updates from local weather services and prioritize safety, especially while traveling. With the forecast predicting ongoing rain and the risk of additional severe storms, continued vigilance is necessary to mitigate the impacts of this challenging weather situation.
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Additional Resources
- QC News: Severe Weather Around Charlotte
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- WCNC: Storm Reports Damage Charlotte Area
- Google Search: Charlotte Weather Alerts
- WBTV: Severe Storms Possible Across Charlotte Region
- Google Scholar: Charlotte Severe Weather
- Charlotte Observer: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
- WBTV Video: Severe Storms Possible in Charlotte
- Google News: Charlotte Severe Storm Updates
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
